Branson Critic - The Online Magazine for Branson Show Reveiws

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Branson is the live entertainment capital of the world so one should expect more than singers, dancers, musicians, and joke tellers; you should expect to see real “entertainers.” When I think of Branson entertainment, the Doug Gabriel Show is the first thing that comes to mind. He is Branson’s most awarded entertainer, including Entertainer of the Year. A powerful singer and extraordinary musician, Doug connects immediately with the audience in everything he does. He puts every ounce of energy into his performances, whether instrumentally or vocally. Doug acknowledges being influenced by other great artists but his performance of their music is entirely his own.

When you listen to Doug Gabriel sing a song he makes sure you feel every bit of the emotion that he feels. When you hear him play the piano, guitar, or mufftar, he makes sure you are left in awe. This show has its roots in, but is not limited to, country music. You’ve got to hear Doug’s performance of Exodus on the piano and Malaguena on the acoustic guitar. He will leave you amazed when you hear him play the William Tell Overture on the mufftar; Doug’s first guitar that his father made from a 1969 Thunderbird muffler. A copy of his mufftar is on display at Ripley’s Believe it or Not Museum.

The Doug Gabriel Show is backed by a group of five exceptionally talented musicians that share Doug’s drive for perfection. Everything these guys play is done with the precision of a military drill team. One of the band members, and co-producer of the show, is Doug’s 21 year old son, Josh, who has been playing drums since he was a toddler. Josh’s younger brother, Jordan, is featured along with Josh on a number they call, Invisible Drummer. It’s a unique presentation and the only one where flash photography is not allowed. Utility instrumentalist, Michael T. Hermsmeyer plays steel guitar, fiddle, flat top guitar, and keyboard in this show. He is featured with outstanding performances of The Orange Blossom Special and The Devil Went Down to Georgia. Lead guitarist, Mitch Keirsey of Keirsey Ministries, does a terrific job singing Wayfaring Stranger. On the piano, Ed Synan is featured with his performance of Last Date. Bob Roth plays bass guitar during most of the show and then switches to the upright bass during the gospel segment.

Long time Branson veteran, Denny Yeary serves as MC and also provides some backup vocals during the show.

Now for the ladies of the show - Doug’s wife, Cheryl Gabriel had a career as a nurse before joining the show on a regular basis. With the Doug Gabriel Show in its 15th year in the morning time slot, Cheryl has played an integral part in its success. She provides smooth background vocals, outstanding solo performances, and she knows how to create a lighthearted atmosphere while always maintaining her own dignity and outright class. Throughout the show you can see she is a gracious host, a dedicated and loving wife and mother, a talented singer, and she has a great sense of humor. She watches over her daughter with care and encouragement as Jasmine Gabriel gets a larger role in the show this year. Jasmine is featured in the gospel segment singing a wonderful rendition of Amazing Grace. Jasmine has been on stage since she was 7 days old.

This is truly a talented family show and a show perfect for families. It epitomizes the quality of entertainment in the entertainment capital of the world.

Bob Cort, Editor