From the North Texas Daily, Tuesday November 25th, 1997

"Crowd Slept Until Course of Empire Performed," by Mary Tucker

Course of Empire took the stage at about midnight.  The crowd's 
eyes opened and their bodies perked up considerably for the set.

Course of Empire showed its diversity by mixing hard drum and 
guitar drives with Vaughn Stevenson's soft, Jim Morrisonesque 
lyrics.

The two drummers, Chad Lovell and Michael Jerome, gave the 
drumming a uniquely strong and tight sound.

Bassist Paul Semrad and guitarist Mike Graff interacted 
exquisitely, especially during the Spanish-tinged tribal numbers. 

The crowd woke up fully, showing its emotion by throwing their 
bodies around similar to those in a mosh pit.

One song had a great tribal beat, accompanied by challenging 
lyrics, ending in climactic energy.

Course of Empire maintained its energy throughout the full 75-
minute set.

Their next album, Telepathic Last Words, will be released Jan. 
20.

The band members will be hanging around Dallas until their 
album is released, said Mike Graff, lead guitarist.

[end of article]

Photo caption: "Bass player Paul Semrad of Course of Empire 
plays Friday night at Rick's Place.  Course of Empire performed 
their last show of '97."