I read later that the number of visitors to '04 Summer Sonic was 87,000 over the 2-day period.

As I close this report, I would like to note that, in both shows, Wayne Kramer clearly acknowledged the life and music of Fred "Sonic" Smith and Rob Tyner. He declared that their life still came through to the band through their music and said that was something that connected the audience with DKT/MC5. Probably 90% of the crowd didn't understand what they were hearing in English. Nonetheless, they responded to Wayne with big applause because they did have one common language, that is, the names "Fred `Sonic` Smith and Rob Tyner". It was truly a wonderful experience as we all shared the music that Fred and Rob left to us, with the surviving members of MC5. Just a year ago, reformed The Doors also played Summer Sonic. Did Ray Manzarek acknowledge the soul of Jim Morrison? NO. This year, just a few weeks before DKT/MC5 came to Japan, The Who had played their very first show in this country at another huge rock festival called Rock Odyssey. Did Pete Townshend pay respect to Keith Moon and John Entwistle? Not quite -- referring to them as "ghosts" only briefly.

If Rob and Fred were alive, wouldn't have they joined the tour? Why not? Just like Dennis, Mike, and Wayne have changed over the years and chosen to grow for a greater joy of playing together again, Rob and Fred might have also changed if they were still alive. There are a few spiritual areas where no one, even family, except the individuals who were directly involved, should step into. Male friendship is, I think, one of these very few spheres. Hadn't Rob, who was an excellent cartoonist, wanted to join the band and visit this Pokemon Anime country? Hadn't Fred been interested in joining the tour and visiting this country which his wife has great affection?

The DKT/MC5 are still on the road as I write this. Some day, I sincerely hope, EVERYONE who relate to MC5 can celebrate their great music and spirit all together in peace.