The first time I ever saw Carl Albert was when he was originally in Villain which was a local band in the California's Central Valley. I already knew the guitarist, Leon Smith, for quite some time when he used to perform at my old high school. It was at the Yosemite Banquet Hall in Modesto when I was attending a music event there. Villain took the stage that night after a couple pretty lame bands already performed and almost put us asleep.

My first glimpse of Carl was on that stage. He reminded me of Ronnie James Dio physically. I heard them for the first time and couldn't believe my ears. They did an original song called, "Just Close Your Eyes". I was totally blown away by the band but it was Carl's voice alone that captivated the rest of the night for me.

Over time, I wasn't going to be the only who experienced what I did. Every time Villain would be playing locally at the Pizza Machine in Modesto, you can bet your ass that I was there! It was around this point when I used to catch Carl and the band in the parking lot before their set and talk to them. Though the guys from Villain were pretty cool, Carl was much more on a joking and personal level with his conversations.

It was disappointing hearing that Carl left Villain and they broke up. But then I heard he joined Vicious Rumors. So some friends and I made our way to the Omni in Oakland to watch VR. This would only be the first of around 50 shows we would see of VR.

My first impression of VR was the same reaction I had seeing Villain for the first time. But VR was a much more musically powerful band which had a direct impact on me musically and the band I was in at that time called Split Image. Of course, I talked with Carl and complimented him on his decision on his new music endeavor. I met a few of the other band members over time there at the Omni including Mr. Dave Starr himself a couple of times hehe. VR was virtually a fixture in that club.

I went to the Omni just about every weekend to help lend support to our homeboy Carl and VR. One thing I remember most about a conversation I had with Carl was when he became a bartender at that club. I told him about a song I wrote. Ironically, it was called, "Running Out Of Time". I told him I wrote it with him in mind singing it and possible recording it for fun. To quote myself, I said, "I think you could sing this one". Carl's reply was, "What do you mean THINK?". I looked at him and said, "No one likes a smartass...now get my Jack and Coke!" which he just started laughing at me.

That's the kind of guy he was which I think most people would agree. Just an all-around great guy and person to be around. A T-Shirt: $15.00. A CD: $13.99 . Every recollection we all of have of Carl Albert: Priceless.

On a personal note to Carl: It was a pleasure and an honor that you graced our lives with your presence and shared your talent for the whole world to experience. You came from a tiny town in the foothills with that monstrous voice of yours and made us proud which all of musicians in the same location are grateful.
Truly you are missed by one and all. R.I.P. (Rock In Peace) Bro.

Joe Cabiles