Concert-Goers Reminisce at Brooklyn Reunion Show

The Brooklyn Reunion concert encouraged hundreds to bring their lawn chairs and blankets out onto the large ground behind Woodbridge High School. Audience members listened to renditions of their favorites from the 50s and fully indulged in the surrounding enthusiasm, using their dancing feet and clapping hands to turn up the excitement.

While the concert was indeed full of hype and enthusiasm, one of the most touching parts of the concert was the sentimental value every individual on stage shared with one another.

George Galfo of The Mystics pointed to the audience. "You can't appreciate this more than I do. We don't get together often and when we get together, it's nothing but laughs," he said.

"We all go way back. We all went to each other's bridal showers and saw each other's kids grow up," said Al Contrera, another member of the group.

Of course, time invariably takes its toll on the performers, but despite the changes, their spirit and sense of humor remained unwavering.

"A long time ago when we used to perform, some of us would have drinks before we went on stage. Now we drink Metamucil before the show," laughed Galfo.

"Out here when we're performing everyone's jumping around and having a good time, when we go back to the dressing room, it's Bengay time," joked Contrera.

"You would think that after some 50 odd years of singing together, we would sway in the same direction," Galfo replied.

The groups performed some of the biggest hits they ever had. "Who would have thought that three groups raised in the same neighborhood would all have songs that topped the charts," said Galfo to the audience.

It was most of these songs that the groups crooned for their fans - some of the hits that climbed the charts back in the day included The Mystics' ultimate hits "The White Cliffs of Dover," "Hushabye," and "Don't Take the Stars."

The Passions sung their big numbers, including the chart toppers "Gloria," "I Only Want You," and "This is My Love."

In the spirit of the 50s, other songs from the era and beyond that weren't originally by any of the three groups were also performed. "Sweet Caroline" and "Old Time Rock N' Roll" were two songs that brought the audience to their feet. Before they performed "Sweet Caroline," Contrera said to his fellow stage members, "This is the Ultimate Party song - take your mics off the stands!" 

The concert ended with a moving rendition of "Proud to Be An American." Before this last song, the groups requested that all those who have served in the United States Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, or Coastguard stand up so that they and the audience can salute and be recognized for their service.

"They served out there, and because of them, we got a chance to perform," said Galfo thankfully.

Debbie Daniel, who grew up in Elizabeth, was obviously enjoying the concert, clapping her hands and occasionally standing up and dancing to the beat.  "Even though I am from Elizabeth, my aunt is from Brooklyn, and as I child I always went back and forth from Elizabeth to Brooklyn," explained Daniel. "I grew up listening to these groups and Brooklyn is a very sentimental place for me." 

"I enjoy their music," said Lee Rose of Colonia, who attended the concert with his wife, Valerie.

"We should have a concert for young kids to sing the National Anthem or something, because there is probably a lot of hidden talent in Woodbridge, too," said Valerie Rose.