Standing In The Shadows Of Music Too

Darrell Ramsey, Truly, Semper Fi

2011-09-29T21:12:00.002-04:00

Place your seat in the upright position, because we're about to descend in the land of a true mountaineer.
Let me introduce you to one of my dearest friends, Darrell Ramsey.

I actually met Darrell many years before we officially met in 1993, when I was here visiting my chiildren in 1987. I had been here for about a month, when my then wife urged me ot get out the house for awhile. My son had told me about a friend of his who played in a band and he wanted me to go and hear them.
What my child didn't tell me (and I'm actually glad...) that this was a country band.
Not that it made a difference, but I just wasn't prepared for 2 things. The first, how damn good they were and second, the gentleman on whom this blogpost is written about today.
Fast forward to 1993, the scene is the Charleston Sternwheel Regatta an annual citywide event which showcased many of the local acts. I was working for the Musicians Union and went to make sure the staging area was set OK for the act that evening.
Imagine my complete surprise when I see that it is none other than Darrell Ramsey and his band County Line. I hate to say this, but they remembered me before I did them, but I'm glad they did because after their gig, one word lead to another and they invited me to join the band...which I hurry up and did. Did I say they were good...
Over the 5 plus years I spent with them, we enjoyed rocking out many joints and honky tonks along the way.
Not only did I learn an encyclopedia's worth of music from Darrell, but also I learned that fine art of showmanship.
Darrell, if you've never seen him, is one of the best frontmen/ leaders that you will ever see in the music business.
Some people can sing, some can play an instrument. but it's truly rare to have both in one who does it this well. He is also one of the funniest men on the planet. If the music thing wasn't working he would give Jeff Foxworthy a serious run for his money.
Darrell is just a rare gem, plus he's just too damn cool for me. Seriously though, I want to tell you about the kind of man he truly is.
One Friday night we were scheduled to play at place in Charleston which just happened to be down the street from where I was living at the time (how convenient...). Well, I arrived ahead of the rest of the band, and when I walked in and said that I was playing here tonight, the bartender looked at me sort of in shock.
What I didn't know was that this was a bar that was not frequented by people who look like me (if you're not sure where I'm going here just look at my picture and come back, you'll understand it then...).
When Darrell arrived he was told that because I was in the band that we would not be allowed to perform.
My friend was deeply insensed, and told the bartender, the owner and anyone else who would listen that you are "missing out on one the finest musicians that you'll ever want to hear, and if you don't allow us to play, you need not EVER call us again." He then proceeded to take the entire band out of the gig. The owner said "but you guys can play here. " Darrell then said "that's not gonna happen, if we can't play with Tee, then the hell with you."
Let's just say that County Line with Charlie Tee prevailed. You see, when the house realized how much it stood to lose that night, they decided that tonight there would be in their midst a Black man from the Bronx.
Needless to say,we smoked the place, and burned it to the foundation, and to boot, they invited us back several more times. Talk about knocking down barriers.
Of course this cemented my love for this wonderful human being. Dr King would have been proud.
County Line days behind us and Darrell and I remain the best of friends, but I truly wanted the world to know how much I love and respect this man, this former Marine who is truly as the corp says Semper Fi (always faithful).
Darrell was out of the scene for far too long, but he is starting to stir down in the southern part of our great state, so very soon, you'll be able to catch him do what he does best. No matter where he is performing, be sure to get yourself there to see him, you'll be glad you did.

Support Live music today tomorrow and always.

Robert Shafer, flat out pickin'

2011-09-20T14:17:00.003-04:00

Please sit back and let me tell you a story about one remarkable musician.
Ladies and gentleman, this is Robert Shafer.
Folks, let me tell ya, Robert Shafer is truly one of those rare entities that come once in a lifetime...so I am glad to say that it is in our lifetime.
I first met Robert back in 1993 when I arrived here in Charleston and from the time that we met, we have been fast friends. Luckily for me as well he became my bandmate in The Carpenter Ants for a period.
On our regular Wednesday night gigs Shafe would wow our audiences with that flatpicking magic that is his trademark.
To this day, there are just some licks that he played that defy logic for me. It was enough for me to have Michael Lipton be the other guitarist, but watching him and Robert create solos was even better than going to music school.
Robert handles so many different styles of music with such ease, you wonder...was this guy born with a guitar in his crib? The answer, YES!!!
One of his musical heroes the late Danny Gaton would have been absolutely proud of all that Robert has accomplished. He has been several times the National Flatpicking Champion. He's won several contests at our Vandalia Gathering. He has recorded with many artists from Allison Kraus to Johnny Staats and The Carpenter Ants in between.
To be sure Robert has also been a recording artist in his own right.
One story that sticks out for me is a trip we (The Carpenter Ants...) took to play in southern Maryland. On the way to the gig we stopped by to view the home of Danny Gaton. As I said earlier, he was one of Robert's heroes, when we reached his home Robert was so moved just being in his presence that his eyes began to well up. That moment so moved me, that it cemented Robert's stature in my heart.
Aside from being a phenomenal musician, Robert is also one of the funniest guys I know, you don't want to get in his crosshairs with something funny, believe me.
In all, I just want to let you know about this man who just goes about life flat out pickin', and tell you that if you haven't had the opportunity to see him in action, make it your business to go and see him whereever you hear the sound of a guitar maestro at work,, you'll be glad you did.
Also,be sure to check out Robert in any of his entites such as his great disc "Hillbilly Fever," Johnny Staats and the Delivery Boys, The Carpenter Ants CD, "Long Live The Queen." and several Mountain Stage CD's
You can catch him on Facebook too!!!
One last add on...catch him on You Tube.
Support Live music today tomorrow and always.

With Amanda Barber, the show will go on.

2011-03-27T19:30:00.000-04:00

I just have to tell you all about a very exceptional young lady...
Before that though, let me say at the beginning that this post will make you want to run out and tell every young person with talent to hang in there.
A few weeks ago, my good friend Amy told me about a show that Amanda did at her school (Go Horace Mann !!!), in which not only did she rock the house, but also literally fell off the stage, got up and still kept right on singing. Now that is real stage presence.
I first became aware of Amanda through Amy who is a friend of Amanda's Mom Martha. I was told that "Charlie Tee, you really need to hear this kid, I mean she is unreal with talent." As usual, I'm, always late to the party, but eventually I did hear of Amanda and was quite frankly, blown away.
I remember Judy Garland and how talented she was at that same age, and came to realize that Amanda has got her beat...by miles.
It's really important that we as adults take some precious time with our youngsters and help them to find their dreams.
I'm glad that I'm not dreaming when I tell you that with Amanda Barber, the show will go on.
The only thing that I want to add here is a plea...Amanda, if I'm still around when you come of age, let me work for you, I just want to be able to tell everybody that I discovered you. With this post, I think everybody will discover you too. Keep rocking the house little sister, all the way to the top.
You can catch the Devine Miss A at her school concerts, but stick around and remember this name, Amanda Barber, you'll be seeing it again.

Support Live music today tomorrow and always.

LauRha Frankfort, the real Myagi

2010-05-02T12:44:00.017-04:00

I really should have written this one a long time ago, but, better late than never...
Every musician that I can think of has someone somewhere in their past who just helped to inspire them. Here is the story of my person of inspiration.
LauRha Frankfort is a saxophonist, a multi instrumentalist, a visual artist, and putting it very candidly my biggest inspiration.
For those of you who see me now in performance and wonder where does he get all of that energy from, well this lady is at least 98% of how I came to be.
I met LauRha in the 80's in New York where I was struggling at best. At the time of our meeting I had been in band after band, played with person after person and was going nowhere fast. Although I knew where I wanted to go (...and I still do), I just seemed to be hitting the same brick wall.
She and I actually met at a party that someone was having and she was the the musical end of that deal.
Ms. Frankfort was absolutely the most confident person that I think I've ever met, and as I listened to her work her way through her sets, she had the entire room transfixed on her and the band. They ripped off some jazz standards and some pop stuff with equal amazement. Everyone in the room had their heads boppin' to that beat.
I hadn't gotten high, or even had a drink, but I felt so mellowed by this music that you may have thought that I was on something..
When the band took a break, one may have thought that I was a magnet as I flew to the stage and and stuck my hand out to her and said hi. I'm sure at first LauRha must have imagined that I was some lovesick old guy. Well, truth is I WAS !!! That meeting turned into LauRha becoming my saxophone teacher for a number of years.
I explained that I played, but I wanted to get better; she explained if I wanted to get better then I needed to look inside of myself and bring out my personality.
Here's the Myagi: In the Karate Kid movies, starring the late Pat Morita, he explained to Daniel (played aptly by Ralph Macchio) that his karate is not going to come from some mindless thing you learn in a book, but moreover what you learn from living in life. That's why when Daniel was trimming the Bonsai trees Mr Myagi told him to "just trust the picture." LauRha did that same exact thing to me. When I would go to her house for a lesson, she would first talk to me about the things going in the world, and then relate them to music. What I came to realize was that everything is inter-connected, and that it is all relavant to my music.
As a visual artist LauRha would paint and her work was so simple that it had depth. Even when she did line drawings there is just a weight to them that makes them stand out in the exact same way that when I heard her play for the first time, it stood out.
LauRha turned me into a force of nature, and for every compliment that I get today on my music, I have to reach back and say thank you LauRha for changing my life.
I haven't seen her in almost 20 years, but she is forever etched in my memory as the real Myagi.
If you're out toward the Arizona area be sure to check out my teacher and my friend, you'll be glad you did.
You can follow all of her endeavors on Facebook.com, Twitter.com and also on the web at http://www.laurhacreativeartist.com/.

Support Live music today tomorrow and always.

Stratus

2010-03-07T19:26:00.000-05:00

One by one they got to the gig, it was cold, but they were enthusiastic, it was damp, but about to get hot as Hell in the joint...
Who am talking about, none other than Charleston's own Stratus.
About to launch to the ionsphere of funk, and soul , Joloyd, the Bolland brothers, Cynthia Taylor, Michael "Stoney" Burks, Dugan Carter, and David Loyd were gonna take us on the thrill ride of life y'all.
I have the great pleasure and honor to say that I'm a former member of this band who after 35 years are still going strong. Truth is, I owe them more than they ever gave me, because they started me on my path in music in the truest sense.
I first met Stanley in 1971when I arrived at West Virginia State College (now university...). He was the guitarist for another band, and he was as funky as one could possibly imagine. Stan, left that group and along with brother Lamont started this band.
Stratus has lived on to entertain us all these years, and those of us who were around in the "old days" know that when they hit the stage the funk hits the fan.
On a Sunday afternoon at the library, the members of Stratus held court and blew away the audience with their music. At one point there was an older gentleman sitting in the row in front row looking as though he just wasn't enjoying it at first, but slowly as I glanced at him he was smiling from ear to ear, and bobbing his head to the beat. A true sign of the power of Stratus' music and musicianship...They just make believers out of everyone.
I simply admire their tenacity, even in today's world Stratus proves the point that if you just let it be, the music will take you where it needs you to go.In an era of completely canned and worthless music you can still find a treasure hidden in the clouds. As the Bolland Boys father put it years ago...look up and what do you see? Clouds, not just any clouds, Stratus clouds they're the ones that are big and bountiful and life giving.When they rain down you feel that deep in your soul. When Stratus the band plays it's that same feeling.
So stand under it and get wet with the funk, you'll be glad you did.

You can catch Stratus everywhere, just check your local listings.
Support Live music today tomorrow and always.

Ammed Solomon, premeditated grooves

2008-05-09T03:26:00.000-04:00

Sit back and let me tell you about a brotha, who not only pounds a beat, but lays down a groove as well...
If you're ever at the Empty Glass, and you hear me shout out...MED--------SOL-O-MON !! Then you know that I'm calling for one Charleston's greatest treasures, drummer Ammed Solomon.
Ahhhh, Ahmed one helluva great guy, a good friend, and a marvelous drummer, and agreeably one of Charleston's finest.
I met Med in 1992 when I arrived in the Capital city. He was playing with the band Plutohead, a powerhouse aggregation of players. Since that time I've seen him back up countless other musicians and singers. When he sits behind that drum kit you can rest assured that he is not only keeping time, but also laying down some serious funk and soul, or rock and roll.

Ammed is known by many endearing names: Med,I'm Eddie, Ed, Eddie, Premed, Dr.Drummie (that's one of my nicknames for him...), or a host of many others, but all of those names add up to one great guy.
I have had the distinct pleasure of having Med sit in with me over the years, and getting to feel first hand how he sets the pace, and shapes a song. He always drives me, and that is a good thing.

If you've visited Mountain Stage you know that Ammed as their resident drummer is one seventh of the reasons why that show is such a phenom, and a great success.

For me Ammed is more than just a drummer, he is also more than a dear friend, he is a brother of note.
Anyone this good should be arrested: in his case he should be arrested for his role in premeditated grooves, Ammed's funk can kill ya.
If you ever are in the Charleston area and are in need of being uplifted be sure to follow the sound of the groove, I'm certain that it will lead you right to his door.

Catch Ammed Solomon in any number of these great musical situations: Mountain Stage (check you local listings, or click the link above), The Voodoo Cats, the Soul Doctors, or last but not least Julie Adams and the Rhino Boys. You'll be glad you did.

Support Live Music today tomorrow and always.

Julie Adams, walking the groove line.

2007-02-04T16:30:00.000-05:00

A line from Julie's song "I Don't Mind Walking," says that "I'm glad to do what I have to, just to bring you back..." Well let me tell you, if you listen to this Sister sing, believe me, you won't be going anywhere, but to the dance floor, or to a seat to listen to a true Charleston gem.
Sit back, relax, and let me tell you about this remarkable singer.
I met Julie in 1993, when I first arrived in town and started making my way in the music scene. The scene here was of course Mountain Stage, and Ms. Julie Adams is of course the first lady of Mountain Stage, and was one half of the Fabulous Twister Sister (which also featured Violinist/Fiddler Deni Bonet...).
Jules just has one of those voices that you can't take your ears away from. Back in the day, they used to call a voice like hers, dreamy. For an instrumentalist like me (most of the time...), her sound makes me want to grab my saxophone and play it as if it were the woman I loved.
Julie is also one of the funniest people I know, and there have been times when I've played music with her that I can't look at her because when she gets to joking around, I just lose it .
On the other hand, when she starts crooning a ballad like Ron Sowell's "Wires and Wood," it just lilts me. I picture myself sitting out in an open field and watching the breeze blow the grass around me.
Julie is one of those singers who can fool you, almost; because when you see her out in the street, you would tend not to see her as a person involved in music. I don't mean that in a negative way, it's just that she looks very unassuming for a singer, but soon as she opens her mouth, it removes any doubt that this lady throws down with the best of them.
Julie Adams is always walking the groove line, and if you check her out you won't mind walking with her, and you'll be glad you did.
If you're in the Charleston area, listen for the sound of a vocal groove, then follow it, and pray that it leads you to the pot of gold called Julie Adams.Your ears, and your feet will thank you.
Catch Ms Julie Adams on Mountain Stage, and also in her other guises as lead vocalist of the Blues du Jour, or her small ensemble known as Julie and the Rhino Boys (which feature her Mountain Stage brothers, Ahmed Solomon, on drums, and Steve Hill on bass).
Click on the link here for info about Mountain Stage

Support Live music today tomorrow and always.

The King's Court (T J King)

2006-11-02T18:26:00.000-05:00

I'm gonna say this and I know that I'll catch absolute hell from someone; but please, before you bless me out, read on...
T J King is one of the funkiest White guys on the planet !!!

Now I know that many of you are going to wonder why I happened to choose this young man for that position, and what makes me an expert ?
Here's the thing, even when I see TJ, my body just starts moving. To hear him talk is musical, to watch him play, is musical, and his energy will infect you like the best drug ever could.
I met TJ late last year when I made a rare appearance to sit in with my great friend and mentor, Spurgie Hankins.
Spurgie, like so many other musicians our age in this area, are constantly aligning themselves with younger players. Ever teaching, and inspiring, the best way that we know how...by being on the bandstage, and working it out.
Later on in the evening, in walks a young man with a bag of tricks that would make Felix the Cat envious. Young Mr. King takes his sweet time, gets set up, then in short order we take a break. While at the bar, he comes over and introduces himself, and I think, hmmmm, mannerly, but I bet there is some catch.
Well, after the break, back to the stage we go, Spurgie calls up TJ, and when the brother starts playing, believe me it was like crack cocaine for Charlie Tee, I completely forgot what the heck I was doing, because I was sooo digging what the "KING" was putting down.
As I said earlier, just talking to him is musical, so imagine what it's like to share a stage with him.
I have come to love this young man, who has a heart of gold, and pile driver hands.
When you're in the King's Court you can bet that you will bow down to the rhythm.
So back to my assessment, TJ King is the funkiest White guy on the planet...
OK smart alecks, I know that there are other people who are just as talented, who can make us move, I'm not that out of it, but believe me, TJ's stuff is so serious, that combining him with anyone, any musician that I can think of, he will accentuate their music, and lift it to the sky.
It got me off my fat ass !!
Whatever you do, if you even think that he is playing somewhere in the area, go and check out a new Charleston gem, and wonderfully, refreshing helluva nice guy...you'll be glad you did.
Catch TJ King holding court most Tuesday's with the Spurgie Hankins band at the Empty Glass in Charleston.
Also, another treasure tid bit, TJ is on the air at ROCK 102 FM. most evenings. His show is music, his life is music... hail to the king !
By the way, what makes me an expert ? MY EARS !! Check him out, and your ears won't lie to you either.

Support Live music today tomorrow and always.

Quite Frankly, it's Rachel

2006-08-28T17:49:00.001-04:00

I just love it when I discover a hidden treasure in music. For me it's almost equivalent to winning the lottery, and when I least expect it, it can be even better, like serendipity. So let me tell quite frankly about Miss Rachel Franks:

There I was, minding my own business when onto the stage steps a svelte, sinuous, and sultry singer, who opened up her mouth, and just slayed me.
The stage: Toyota motorworks, the occassion, Toyota's 10th anniversary celebration, an event held at their Putnam County headquarters.
Larry Groce (of Mountain Stage fame) was asked to put together a musical lineup to help the Toyota company celebrate this milestone in West Virginia. Larry pretty much pulled out all the stops to make it an event that Toyota would not soon forget.
The lineup included the Mountain Stage band, Bob Thompson, The Carpenter Ants, and The Blue Notes featuring one Rachel Franks.
Now you have to understand that I am fanatical about singers. I don't have a problem with whatever style they choose just as long as they can deliver the goods...
Well let me tell you here and now, Rachel not only delivers, but it was like watching Aretha, or Patti, or Chaka Khan at work stoking the crowd to a fever pitch, and this Sister just completely blew me away.
It was a crying shame that the Toyota employees weren't there to hear what they sorely were missing.
None the less, I had such a grand enough time listening to Rachel that I probably made up for the lack of a crowd.
Afterwards, I asked Steve Himes (the leader of the Blue Notes) for a copy of their CD, and since that time I listen to it at least once a day.
Rachel is a singers singer, and I would easily put her in the same category as the late Minnie Riperton, she just works the nerve of a song.
So you see, Toyota's loss is my gain. I'm saying all that to say that if you want to make a dull day bright, go and check out this hidden treasure wherever the raw sound of vocal power is flowing, you'll be glad that you did, but quite frankly that's just Rachel.

Click here for info on Rachel Franks, and the Blue Notes.

Supoort Live music today tomorrow and always.

Phil Ruby, Diamond in the Rough

2006-07-19T08:15:00.000-04:00

If you're into jewelry you know that rubies are precious stones, but you also know that there is nothing like the brilliance of a diamond.
Well I know a fella that is as precious as a ruby, with the sparkle of a diamond...
Just a little play on words as I tell you about a wonderful musician and singer with a sparkle in his name, and some polished musicianship in his game...Phil Ruby.
I met Phil in 1995 when I played saxophone in a country band called County Line. Phil replaced our regular bassist Paul Billante' for a period, and let me tell you when the brother opened up his mouth to sing I was moved to say the least...what a wonderful voice.
Fast forward a few years...I hadn't seen Phil for quite awhile, then I started sitting in with Jim Snyder at the River's Edge here in St.Albans, and lo and behold who was the bassist, Phil Ruby.
I know alot of bass players who make a stab at trying to sing and play, but it seems to be a bit difficult for them, but Phil makes it look easy as he weaves his way through songs as diverse as Roger Miller to Keith Urban.
I got an e-mail from him recently and he was telling me that he was interested in doing some solo work, then he proceeds to tell me that he played at a party and the people there thought that he should strike out on his own and so some gigs...he actually sounded suprised by their comments.If these people knew what I knew, they would know that in Phil Ruby there is a diamond in the rough, and given the right circumstances we just may have another superstar singer on our hands.
Phil in my opinion is one helluva guy, and a grand musician, and he's sat in the back for far too long. Hopefully with this post and some loving prodding we can get him to start playing out more so that everyone can get a chance to see and hear this wonderful musician.
If you're out in the St. Albans area on most Thursdays, stop by the Rivers Edge Cafe and check out Phil with Jim Snyder and Friends. During the night Phil usually gets to switch to guitar and sing lead for a set, and I'll tell you that voice will be just the right touch to start off your weekend. You'll be glad you did.

Support Live Music today tomorrow and always.

Michael "Stoney" Burks, the human Xerox machine.

2006-06-14T20:48:00.000-04:00

If you ever want some true inspiration, this is a story that you don't want to miss.If you ever want to know that you can accomplish whatever you set your mind on, then this is the story for you.
Michael "Stoney" Burks is a true inspiration as a musician. He not only can play most any instrument, but he also masters them completely.
Stoney has been one of my dearest friends for a long long time.We were roommates, as well as bandmates for a number of years, and he is one of the people that I think of when I think about all the possibilities of what you can achieve in music.
I first met Stoney when I was in Stratus and the band went to Detroit to do a gig .If memory serves me correctly, I think that he was playing trumpet with someone else, when we recruited him to come to West Virginia to play with us which he accepted readily.
When he got here he quicky establised himself in the black music community as a musician of note. He joined Stratus as a second horn player along with Dugan Carter on the tenor saxophone.
Somewhere along the way he and I and Joloyd ( Stratus' drummer) ended up rooming together along with another friend of mine who was also from Detriot, so it was the New York boy with the Detroiters ( man that was a scene...),we had this serious apartment in Dunbar, threw some of the jazziest parties ever and jammed around the house all day long.
As it turned out we used to store the band equipment at the apartment, so Stoney had access to all of the instruments that we housed including a Fender Rhodes electric piano, and being inquisitive as he still is, he started teaching himself how to play.In nothing flat he became a serious keyboard player; from there he set his sights on the electric bass, and quickly mastered it.
Stoney is like a human Xerox machine in that he can copy something to perfection,even getting all the nuances.
My little brother still amazes me with his skills as a musician. I think about so many people out there who want to play music so badly, they spend countless dollars and countless time trying to become musicians, when the truth of the matter is that all they need to do is spend quality time with an instrument, and play something slowly until they get it...that's what Stoney does, and it truly does pay off.
If your out and about in the Charleston area, go check out Stratus and Stoney Burks wherever mellifluous sounds are emanating, you will be glad you did. You can also check out Stoney, Dugan Carter, and David Loyd, collectively known as Full Flavor, at the Empty Glass on Fridays during Happy Hour.They're one of the few musical situations that even during a Happy Hour people take notice of...It's that good.

Support Live music today tomorrow and always.

Tim Courts, pounding out his path.

2006-01-22T18:11:00.000-05:00

It's incredible to me to watch a guy like Tim Courts, because if you try to keep up, he can take your breath away with so much movement.Then again, maybe I should, since I need to lose weight, a day with Tim might just do me a whole lotta good...

When you talk about a man who is everywhere at once, you could be very well talking about this guy. It might make you wonder if our friends in Point Pleasant are on to something, with the Mothman thing.
Almost every time I look up in a musical situation in this town, smiling back at me is Tim Courts.
First of all let me say, that if you are seeing him, you are listening to one of Charleston's newset treasures. This brother's got the goods, he's a great drummer, keyboardist and arranger and he utilizes all these skills when he is involved in any number of his musical situations.
With jazz legend Bob Thompson, Tim can be heard playing pile driver drums,with First Baptist Church, he swells the keyboards, directs the choir, and they all make a joyful noise, and I know that he works 'em hard because my daughter Kendra is one of his choir members, and I know personally how great a singer she is.
The deal here is that Timmy Courts is pounding out his life path, and that path is set on loftier heights.
When you have the great Winston Walls, and Bob Thompson as your mentors, unless you just don't give a damn, which way do you think you're goin'?
I've known Tim now for a few years and I feel happier everytime I see him because he seems happier to be doing what he's doing, making music for the masses... literally.
If you can slow down your vehicle long enough, somewhere in this town is a young man who is making music that gives you a reason to be here, and that man is Tim Courts.Be sure to catch him, you'll be glad that you did

To be sure, I know that you can catch Tim most Tuesday's with Bob Thompson at
Legends
806 Kanawha Blvd.
Charleston WV, 25301
342-2699

Also. Tim and the great First Baptist Chuch Choir
Shrewsbury St.
Charleston WV, 25301
This is a beautiful church with the friendliest folks, head there for Sunday prayers.

Supprort Live music today tomorrow and always...and that would include going to church services. It's joyful for a reason.

Lisa Thomas Peery, a sound from above

2006-01-22T01:57:00.000-05:00

Having played the flute as my principal instrument for many years, I can tell you first hand that it's not nearly as easy as one thinks to master it.
Of course that statement is true of any instrument, but that little woodwind can be a bear sometimes, unless your name is Lisa Peery...
I'm going to tell you about a Charleston lady who has made her chosen axe one that makes the Angels weep with joy and exuberance.
I've been a fan of Lisa's since I met her in 1993 at a jam session that she Kai Haynes, David and JoLoyd,and David Lavigne used to hold on Saturdays at the Firehouse club on the East End of town. This night saw them take on one of my favorite pieces at the time, Carly Simon's "You Belong To Me." In the original song my hero David Sanborn takes the Alto sax solo, so imagine my wonderful surprise when Lisa not only nailed it with the Flute but also made it sound twice as good, plus sang the hell out of the song to boot.
Charleston has many fine Flutists, but Lisa' s sound is from somewhere else...a sound somewhere above in the Heavens.
She and her wonderful husband Al (a great trombonist) have carved themselves a nice life here in the Valley, while she plays in our wonderful West Virginia Symphony, Al plays the 'bone with Blues du Jour. They are the travel bandits.These days when I see the 2 of them, they're headed off somewhere...it's all so beautiful ( no pun intended).
Lisa, I'm very sad to say hasn't been playing out much these days and I miss seeing her in the fray.She's too talented to be sidelined to just the Symphony.
There is much that is great about this dynamic and beautiful lady, and I sincerely hope that if you read these words, you'll make it your business to seek out this incredibly talented woman...you'll be glad that you did.

First one to find her and get her to re-appear publicly and play for the masses again wins a CD of their choosing...the challenge is up, e-mail my post. Lisa, come back to us, we miss you!!

Catch Lisa Thomas Peery with The West Virginia Symphony Orchestra

Support Live music today tomorrow and always.

Dugan Carter, the sound of a lion

2006-01-04T23:32:00.000-05:00

When I was young, and I was studying the saxophone with my Godfather, he would regale me with stories about jazz's past life, the Coleman Hawkins days, and Charlie Parker days and so on. He explained how the saxophone was the instrument that was closest to the human voice, and therefore just as you would wish to be understood when you speak, your sax should do the same thing. He further explained that "I don't care what anyone tells you, tone is EVERYTHING."
It wasn't until I met Dugan Carter that I completely understood what he meant.
Here is a story about a man whom I consider to be one of the greatest saxophone players that I've ever known...
I even remember the day that I made this discovery, it was Saturday June 2nd, 1974. The place was the Gentleman's Club, Charleston WV, the joint was packed and the mood was right for a life changing experience.
Although I played the sax for many years, I realized that I was only playing at it, because that night I heard Dugan take one of the most amazing solos that I had ever heard at that time, the song was "Midnight Soul Patrol,"by the great Quincy Jones (just in case you want to pick it up, the album is entitled "I Heard That").
Dugan was a part of the incredible horn section that was and luckily still is Stratus. This band was just unbelievable, they had the look, the sound and the goods to be the next Earth Wind and Fire easily, but Dugan had a sound that far surpassed everyone. I could literally sit and listen to him entonate for hours on end.
What happened to me was that I realized how the sound of a saxophone was truly generated, where it's center was, and how it was manipulated.
Dugan can make a saxophone swell with sound, if you don't understand what I mean, listen to the sound of train whistle, it's sheer power. That's seriously hard for a saxophone, but Dugan can do it.
For years when I listened to other horn players, I knew that they were good mostly, but I never truly understood why until that night. It's that really good horn players create a sound that is so good that it's just like speaking, but even though there are no words spoken you still understand them perfectly, and that's what Dugan does for me, he speaks with perfection.
I've known Dugan since 1971, and we've been great friends, but after that night at least in my mind he was elevated to "lion" status. In other words, he has a sound that definetely makes you pay attention...and I hope that if you enjoy music even a tiny bit, you do.
Dugan Carter has the sound of lion, and it's a sound that you'll be glad you heard forever.

Catch Dugan Carter locally with Stratus and with Full Flavor featuring Michael "Stoney" Burks on trumpet and David Loyd on keyboards. Click here for info on when they play at the Empty Glass

Support Live music today tomorrow and always

The Redding Brothers, rocking God's Words

2005-12-27T23:11:00.000-05:00

I have to admit that it always does my heart good to see young people really work at the things that they aspire to.Part of it for me is remembering when I was young and how I tried so hard to be in this business, and seeing all that I worked for come true.
In my case though, I stupidly threw it all away...

In the case of these fellas, believe me, we will be seeing a whole lot of them, if they continue their present course and stay together in love.
Ladies and gentleman sit back and get comfy, it's time to read about 3 fantastic musicians...The Redding Brothers.
Let me start by saying that these guys come from truly one of the nicest familes that I've ever met...all 11 of them.Yep, you read it correctly 11, and from Mom and Dad down to the youngest you won't find a greater family, unless of course you say "goodnight John Boy,"
Anyway, Micah, Josiah and Gabriel ( guitar, bass and drums respectively) have carved out quite a niche' for themselves, by themselves
and in the process have created a huge buzz around West Virginia and in Nashville.
When the Carpenter Ants decided to start doing some gospel music to add to our shows, I was to say the least, skeptical, 9 years later and still going strong with that direction I can't believe that all musicians aren't taking that route.Well the Reddings have taken it to a different level, they're writing songs about the life God intends for us, but they've regenerated the folk era of the 60's and put their own spin on it. The Redding Brothers are rocking God's words. They may not directly quote the Bible but believe me the spirit is definitely in there.
What makes what they do so refreshing is that these brothers are absolutely sincere, there is an honesty to their work that will garner them fans for a long time to come.
The thing that I'm proudest of is through them, they saved a deserving young lady from giving up on life, and helping her to change her life, and to me that's worth the price of admission.
Whoever said that youth is wasted on the young apparently has not been to a Redding Brothers concert...well isn't it time?
Go out and catch the Redding Brothers at a locale near you, you won't be sorry.

Click here for more info on The Redding Brothers .
ps. their website is AWESOME !!!

Support Live music today tomorrow and always.

Laura Nadeau, the real singer

2005-12-26T11:55:00.000-05:00

I've known some outstanding singers in my lifetime, but much of the time they only know their audience enough to be able to go for the schmooze aspect of singing a song; meaning that they really just effect the mannerisms rather than going for what they know and just singing, but sit back and let me change your mind and tell you about a real singer...
Laura Nadeau of Athens Ohio.
Folks, there are singers and then there are SINGERS...
I mean Patti LaBelle, Aretha,Vonda Shepard, Eva Cassidy and many more; well please, add the name of Ms.Laura Nadeau to your list of people that you must listen to.
Now I'm the kind of guy who likes and needs pictures painted when listening to singers, I like for them to use their voices and carry me away, so it's a joy for me when I know Ms.Laura is going to be joining us for a song or 10 because she raises the bar for my band...and then some.
I first met Laura when the Carpenter Ants played at the Blue Gator about 3 years ago. She was also there with her band Stella, which she is the frontlady, and to be honest, I was too focused on my Carpenter Ant job to really pay attention, so regretfully I didn't, and because of that I didn't see that Stella is really a power packed unit that goes for the jugular of emotions. I missed how they captured their crowd and moved them (Can I add, how stupid it was of me to do that ?!!).
Well, now that I do know, as the saying goes, I'm a changed man...
Recently we had the great fortune to gain the valued assistance of Laura on one of our new songs entitled "The Sausage Song." When she stepped up to the plate she completely changed my outlook, my beliefs and my feelings.Put simply, she sang her ASS off. Not too much longer, the Ants went on the road and I shared a ride with Ted Harrison (our bassist), he and I were enjoying the ride when he pulls out a CD by Stella entitled "Pony Girl,"needless to say, now I'm kicking myself because I had never heard the CD, and Laura kicked major rear end, singing ( I won't use that A** word twice, but you get the picture.)
Folks, Laura Nadeau is singer of major proportion, and I want to tell you that she can move you like no other, she can interpret a song like nobody's business and when she comes in to do a vocal part believe me it will bring a song roaring to life. To get the picture of what I'm saying, click on the Carpenter Ants link (above) and listen to her arrangement of our vocals on the Sausage Song, or pick up a copy of Pony Girl, or even better still drive up to Athens Ohio, and catch her with her great band Stella, and you'll see that Ms.Laura Nadaeu is...the real singer. You'll be overjoyed that you did.

Catch Laura Nadeau with Stella locally and regionally.
Click here for their website Stella and contact info.

Support Live music today tomorrow and always.

Kevin Kidd, anchoring the spirit.

2005-11-29T00:39:00.000-05:00

There are bassists who pound out the bass notes with ferocity and verve, Chris Allen comes to mind here, then there are bassists who manuever the bottom of the melody and help to bring about the fullness of an overall sound, Ted Harrison is your man for that, but when it comes to bass freedom along the lines of the legendary Charles Mingus, the only person that I know who has that entire field covered is Kevin Kidd.

If you haven't seen this dynamic and absolutely hilarious bassman, then you have missed out on some of Charleston's best music and fun.
Kevin is the bassist in the Spurgie Hankins band, and if you have ever been to any of their shows, you know first hand that it's just like a religious experience in a holy jumper church.The music is seriously intense,and light as a feather with Spurgie singing and playing that beautiful guitar and Kevin laying down foundations that can only be described as lighter than air, and heavy as a cloud when it's forming thunder.
I have the privilege to call Kev one of my best friends, as we not only have played music together, but also worked together for the last 12 years at the Kanawha County Public Library.We were in the Audio-Visual Dept. for a good portion of that time, until I left to move to the St.Albans Branch.
In my opinion, Kevin is one of the brightest people that I've ever encountered, his knowledge of music reaches far and very wide. When patrons would ask a question that I couldn't answer Kevin was my front line of defense, and I learned volumes from him.
Kev was a veteran of the jam band scene ( folks getting together in earnest to make music their way, with no convention), and I just liked his style of play, and recommended him to Spurgie because I felt as though Spurge really needed an anchor for his wonderfully spiritual music. Who knew this meeting would bear fruit in the form of the re-tooled Spurgie Hankins band, and brother, they came out smokin'.
I mentioned earlier that Kev is hilarious, truly that is an understatement, he could easily be one of the funniest men on the planet, and I'm not certain how his beautiful wife Jennifer has ever survived because if he's busting out my sides, I can only imagine what it must be like to have that humor lying next to you every night.
Kevin is so funny in fact that when we worked together in the AV Dept., at our staff meetings we would have to devote the first portion of it to let Kevin get his jokes and comments out of his system before we could get started...it was crazy, and I loved it, and on stage he's just as crazy, but when he starts to play, believe me, it ain't no joke.
One of my favorite pieces of music is Charles Mingus' "Me Myself An Eye,"and if you ever come across a copy of it on CD or any other way, grab it up, give it a listen, then head for wherever Kevin Kidd is playing and you'll witness him anchoring the spirit in the way of Mingus, and I guarantee you that it will enrich your life...it has mine.

You can catch Kevin Kidd with the Spurgie Hankins Band at the following locations.
The Empty Glass most every Tuesday, starting around 9pm.
Also atThe Blue Parrot
14 Capitol St
Charleston WV, 25301
(304) 342-2583
most Wednesdays, call for times.
You can also check Kevin out with the Blind Terrance Band featuring Terry Lowry.

Support Live music today tomorrow and always.

Blind Terrance with good vision of the Blues

2005-08-31T16:32:00.000-04:00

Terry Lowry is one of my best friends on the planet...period.
Many people know that Terry is an accomplished author, and is a noted West Virginia Civil War historian. Few people know that he was a consultant on the movie "Glory," featuring Matthew Broderick and Denzel Washington, and the movie "Gettysburg,"where he can also be seen on camera.
Even fewer people know that Terry is also Blind Terrance, one of Charleston's best proporters of the blues guitar.

Terry Lowry is man wearing many hats, by day he is one West Virginia's Dept. Of Culture and History Archive library assistants, and as I said a WV Civil War historian, but at night that all changes when he straps on a guitar and burns down whatever nightclub in town he happens to be playing at.
In one incarnation or another, many of you have seen this truly mild mannered, soft spoken guy, who just simply plays the hell out of his instrument.
If you've ever caught the Leon Waters Blues band, or an older version of the Spurgie Hankins band (featuring then Terry, Doug Vermillion, Tom Fontaine, and yours truly on saxophone) then I'm sure you know as I do that this cat can put it down.
Terry is Charleston's version of Eric Clapton...slow hand, but wielding fire, and just as he knows his Civil War biz, he can tell you a thing or two about some of the 60's bluesmen that dominated this country.
I've known Terry since college dating back to 1972 or 73, anyway, I used to see him and another friend of mine Steve Jones in various places ever rehearsing, and working on new material for their band.
When I returned to this area in 1992, I re-met him and he invited me to play with Leon Waters which in turn lead me to playing with Spurgie Hankins.
I was single in those days and Terry and I used to hang out ferociously, and check out the scene.When I got married he remained part of my life life, as my wife and I made certain that every Thanksgiving he was sitting at our table for dinner.
One winter a bad snow shut down Charleston and we had to go and get him so he wouldn't be stuck in the weather, and that lasted for 4 fun filled days. We listened to hours of music and consummed large quanties of food.
One of the nicest things about Terry is that he never has an unkind word for anyone, he always tries to see the bright side of things, and he is one of the best listeners I know, which to me makes his music that much more incredible.
If you look in your local paper and see that playing someplace in town is either the Leon Waters Blues band, or Blind Terrance, keep your sights on the spot because when the night is over he may have blinded you with some serious guitar playing, but one thing is definite, he may be blind but Blind Terrance has a good view of the blues.

Catch Terry Lowry locally.
Here is a list of the books authored by him:

1. Images of the Civil War In West Virginia.
2. The Battle of scary Creek Military Operations.
3. Last Sleep.
4. 26th Battalion Virginia Infantry.
5. 22nd Virginia Infantry.
6. September Blood, the battle of Carnifex Ferry.

Support Live music today tomorrow and always
...and read a book or two !!

Bob Harrold, and the joy of Sax...

2005-08-19T13:05:00.000-04:00

I'm almost ashamed to say this, but I haven't heard Bob play in a couple of years...YEARS !!!
I will say this though, when folks around here talk about the saxophone players, Bob Harrold's name is usually one of the ones on their lips.

I have a few heroes on my chosen instrument...everybody knows that I love David Sanborn, but there are a few other folks who aren't nationally known, but I hope to make that a little different for my readers.
Bob Harrold is, as well as being a great saxophone player and a pretty fine singer now my neighbor; living here in St.Albans just down the street from me, so he and I get to chew the fat quite a bit these days; and I'm sure that you can guess what is our primary topic of conversation... WOMEN!!( just kidding, I wanted to be sure that you're paying attention.)
I first met Bob in 1994, when we shared the stage at a benefit concert for the late great Charleston drummer Frank Thompson. It was a fun day to say the least, and it seemed like everyone there that day brought their own greatness to the table in honor of Frank, but when Bob went to play all I heard was him, and all I could say was WOW !! His tone was sweet as sugar and his playing ability was inspiring. I remember saying to myself, I don't wanna follow this guy, so it's pretty good that I can sing.
Since then, Bobby and I have been fast friends often sharing stories of bands and the road, and our mutual joy of sax. He has given me lots of encouragement as a player and as a friend.
Bob's beautiful wife Karen (who doubles as my personal banker) keeps me in stitches telling about Bob and his ever changing playing schedule. Karen says "I quit trying to keep up a looong time ago, he says I'm gonna be here or there, and I say OK honey, whatever."
Right now Bob is sort of in between bands, he's playing with a band called Remix, but he also is on call with others.
If you want your saxopohone players hot and your music cool, then Bob Harrold is your guy on both counts, he's a hot saxophonist who's cool, and he's a hot guy who blows a cool sax.
One other thing that you can count on is that when Bob Harrold is in the house, that house will probably be shaking to its foundation because this brother blows as hard as a sledge hammer.
Be sure to catch Bobby where ever the woodwind blows, because his noise is truly joyful...you'll be glad you did.

Catch Bob Harrold with Remix locally.
If you want more info on Bob Harrold,please e-mail this post.

Support Live music today tomorrow and always.

Bob Thompson, The Master Key

2005-07-18T14:51:00.000-04:00

This post, I'm especially proud to write...
Bob Thompson is not only my good friend, but also he's my "homeboy" as well, (Queens, New York y'all) !!!
It just seems as though I've known Bob forever and a day; I actually did know of him in New York, as we traveled some of the same circles musically.
When I moved here to West Virginia in 1971 imagine my great surprise when I found out that he lived here as well. Somewhere along the way we met and I got to hear him play and man I really saw in short order what everyone in New York was talking about, this guy played a piano to death.
What Winston Walls is to the B-3 organ, Bob Thompson is to the piano, Fender Rhodes and every other keyboard. He brings them to life.
He is one of the reasons that we have great shows like Mountain Stage. The greatness that he brings to that show in my opinion is unparalleled. If you're not sure what I mean just listen to him play the theme of Mountain Stage, it's just elegant, period.
One of the nice things that he is doing now is employing younger musicians, giving them a deserving break, and breaking out some cool city grooves with these guys. The Bob Thompson Quartet burns down the house every week here in Charleston at Legends as well as places like the ultra cool Vandalia Lounge, but truthfully, it's a whole lot more than just that, Bob is just a master and there's no denying it. In New York ( Bob will relate to this...) , when kids start getting toward the age where their parents entrust them with keys to their homes, the parents have the main keys and the kids all get a copy, we call those kids "latchkey" kids. The parents get the main or the master key because that one is the one that unlocks everything, and just as parents do they keep a watchful eye on their brood, thereby extolling them with responsibility. Well Bob has done that with these guys, giving them the musical responsibility to keep the jazz scene alive and thriving in Charleston...I think it's working !
If you're into the smooth as silk jazz groove, or the edgy jazz-rock fusion, then you need to go out and check out Bob Thompson wherever the melody leads you. You won't be sorry.

Click right here for more info on Bob Thompson.
Check out the Bob Thomplson Quartet at:
Legends
806 Kanawha Blvd.
Charleston WV, 25301.
(304) 342-2699
Don't forget also, to check out Mountain Stage live and on West Virginia PBS TV. Check your local listings for info.

To Bob, the Yankees are still better than the Mets...smile!!

Support Live music today, tomorrow and always.

Jim Snyder, beachfront groovin'

2005-07-13T17:57:00.000-04:00

It's really a misnomer to say that Jim Snyder is a Jimmy Buffet clone.
It's really crazy to say that Jim Snyder is egomaniacal ( as I've heard over the years) What is the absolute truth about Jim is that he is as driven a person as you will ever meet, and for whatever reason that stance may intimidate or infuriate some people, but take a different look here with me.

I've been hanging out with Jimmy now for about a month and a half at his regular Thursday gig in St.Albans at the River's Edge Cafe, and I will tell you that he has been nothing but gracious and kind to me, as well as an inspiration.
In the time that I've been hanging out with the band, Jim and I have had some serious talks about music, about life, dealing with children, and a great many other things and he has fascinated me with his knowledge of music, he has a wonderful voice and is a damn fine guitarist.
What I've come to realize is that I just didn't take the time to get to know him better and I'm sorry that I hadn't, but I'm now glad that have.
Playing in St.Albans with Jim Snyder and friends has been a great ego boost for me as well as a great learning experience...I had never really played alot of the songs that we do and it's been a fun challenge to play the sax on much of his stuff. One week he shocked me to death by telling everyone in the audience that night that, "I'm going to give you a real treat, you all need to hear Charlie Tee sing." What an honor for me, Omigod !!!
That's not someone who is all about an ego.
As far as comparisons to Jimmy Buffet it may be in the first name only, his style his voice, and the fun he brings to the music is nothing Jimmy Buffet can come even close to. I will say though that Jim Snyder's music does make one think of the beach, but it makes me think about the good times that I've always had when I'm near the ocean. To me his music is more reminiscent of Kenny Loggins, in the years just after Loggins and Messina, the Celebrate Me Home years.
Jim Snyder is about beachfront groovin' with some city slick funk thrown in.
Also, during this time Jim and I have been talking about his wonderful son Sam, who is the supreme joy in his life, and you can hear the music in his voice when he talks about Sam; he just glows with the kind of pride that I remember my Dad having about my Sisters and I, and to me that's really musical
I want to urge you, if your anywhere near anyplace that he is playing and you want to have an absolute blast of an evening, catch Jim Snyder and any of his friends shakin' the foundation. Your butt will thank you for it.

Catch Jim Snyder and friends regularly at the River's Edge Cafe on most Thursdays. It's too much fun!!
For more info on Jim Snyder, e-mail this posting or contact:
Jim Snyder
Po Box 421
Lewisburg WV, 24901
(304) 645- 6640

Support Live music today, tomorrow and always

Todd Burge, wit wisdom and Will

2005-07-12T20:23:00.000-04:00

I've only known Todd for a few years but his music is so serious that I feel as though I've known him forever.
When it comes to speaking about West Virginia positively Todd Burge is the man you want to listen to. He sings with a compassion that can only come from having been born and raised in the Mountain state. His lyrics talk about moving away only to realize that home is the place you'd rather be, a home in Wood County.
I wrote once that Todd to my way of thinking is alot like Ed McMahon formerly of the Tonight Show, he appears to be very serious, but it's all a big set up for the punchline.

Todd Burge just makes me laugh out loud, he has a way of looking at things that many of us take for granted, with a humorous bent. With an eye for detail Todd paints great pictures with his music. Listening to him will put a feeling in your heart that is comparable to feelings you get when you miss something or someone terribly.
One of the things that he sings about with vigor is about leaving home because you see light at the end of your tunnel only to realize that the light you're looking at is the light from your home bekonning you back to your roots...I truly can identify.
When I left New York in 1992 for what I thought were greener pastures, I hadn't ever counted on going through the loss of my Sister, or the loss of the innocense of my city during 9/11. Even though I may not have been directly connected per se' I am a native New Yorker and those events hurt me deeply.
It took the music of Todd Burge's "Wood County Man," to make me realize just how much I missed home, and despite my love for the great state of West Virginia I miss my home...deeply.
To me, it takes real man to admit that he longs for the comfort of his childhood life and the security that being from a place like this can give you.
West Virginia has produced many many great people, and Todd Burge is in line with all of them. His music is profound and it's profoundly funny.
If you've ever listened to artists like the King of the Road, Roger Miller, and singers such as Ray Stevens, then you have the merest inkling of the kind of artist that is Todd Burge.
Todd and his beautiful wife/ life partner Lisa now also have the added blessing of their son Will. Their son has injected Todd's music with even more life, and even more humor. Todd told us through song that even watching movies like Easy Rider can have new meaning when you're watching while changing diapers.
I feel very lucky to call Todd a good friend, he has given all of us lots of needed encouragement, he is a musicians, musician, he is great painter of West Virginia pictures in song.
When you find the time please go and check out one of the states best artists...
if you love this state, you'll be glad you did, for Todd Burge is wit, wisdom, and the Will it takes to be a master storyteller.

This post is also dedicated to Lisa "Miss Leesee" Burge and master Will Burge. Thank you for your unselfish gift to West Virginia and the world of Todd, we are all better for it.

Todd has also joined the ranks of bloggers like me...here is his blog link and his website check them both out.
1.Todd Burge Music
2. Todd Burge.com

Support Live Music today, tomorrow and always.

David Dunkley, following the rhythm of his heart.

2005-06-30T16:34:00.000-04:00

If you know Dave, you that he's got the bluest eyes, and nearly the blondest hair; but let me tell you it's all a crock...David Dunkley is the blackest man I know, in every sense of the word. He is a true brotha.

I seems like I've known Dave forever, but I really got to know him during a short spell on his couch for a few months back in the early 90's (one of my nomad periods...).
Dave was living in the swinging bachelor pad on the Westside of Charleston, playing music everywhere with everyone, and trying hard to make it in the music biz.
At the point that he and I started hanging out in earnest he was playing with a band called Sleeper, a groove machine of a group. During our Sternwheel Regatta, they enlisted me to sit in on the saxophone for the night and it was too much fun.
Dave was their drummer at the time and he would keep the band in stitches with his crazy humor (just somthin' about them drummers, and being hilarious).
Over the years it seemed that David was just everywhere at once, and luckily for me whenever I would show up he would personally see to it that everyone was aware of my presence. I can still hear him..." Tee, don't be tryin' ta hide in the doggone corner, where's that saxophone? (...in my car Dave !!), well just march yourself out there and get it !!! "
You can't be anonymous with him, but that's the spirit of Dave Dunkley.
He and I spent countless hours talking about the music business and the things that Charleston needed to do for our fellow musicians here. One of the cool things about David is that he didn't limit himself to just being a drummer, he'd break out and play some pretty mean percussion once in awhile, if he needed to, he didn't have the kind of ego that said I must be the drummer at all times, he would just go with flow.
At a certain point, like most folks in this town, he started to get really restless. It's really difficult to make music your life's work in this area, for a number of reasons which I won't get into now ( stay tuned for a blog post on the pitfalls of Charleston music, in Standing In The Shadows Of Music), but like alot of folks Dave had to leave for greener pastures. Well, our loss, was the tremendous gain for Nashville and legendary country singer Tim McGraw. As being blessed would have it, they soon found each other, and I am happy to report that David Dunkley is one of Tim's Dancehall Doctors ( Tim McGraw's serious alter ego band.).
I cannot begin to tell you how absolutely proud and happy I am for a man who followed the rhythm of his heart and came up a winner.
Another thing that makes me love him even more is he's now found solace in the arms of the God, and he and his beautiful wife and family are a part of Gods' everlasting family, and Dave still is one of us, he didn't go Hollywood and forget about us, his love has increased 10 fold.

It's my pleasure to tell you that you can catch Dave Dunkley with Tim McGraw in the upcoming Live 8 concert being broadcast live throughout the world.
This is a concert to help end poverty throughout Africa and the Third World.
Also check the internet and you local library for Tim McGraw's music which features our Dave.

This post is also dedicated to David's mother Pat, who did one helluva job raising her son by herself, and turning him into a decent, caring and "COOL" man.

Support Live Music today, tomorrow, and always...

Spurgie Hankins, I'm really sure

2005-06-26T01:16:00.000-04:00

A line from one his songs instructs us to "only believe in half of what you see, and none of what you hear," I say, all of that may be true but as you read on, the one thing that you'll realize about Spurgie Hankins is, that with music this honest he's got alot of playing yet to do.

Spurgie Hankins is truly that one of a kind musician, a combination of powerful lyrics, the most ethereal melodies, and heart pounding rhythms. He is the West Virginia version of Maurice White (of Earth Wind and Fire). His music is as deep as the ocean and just as beautiful.

I've known Spurgie dating back to 1972, I've listened to the roots of his music in earnest since before then. By that, I mean that as you listen to the entire package which is Spurgie you'll find that his music stems from a biblical sense of being. A sense that is rooted in dealing with the pain and pleasures of life.
He can make you feel the deep pain of love gone bad, and the simple honest joy of loving your children without abandon.
I spent 2 years playing saxophone with Spurgie's band and during that time the love and respect that I garnered for that man transcends time...his music just moves me that way.
As one of West Virginia's hidden treasures I want to turn the spotlight on a man who like the other great West Virginian, Bill Withers gives voice to everyman.
Spurgie Hankins is writer without peer in my opinion, with the possible exception of Todd Burge, Spurgie's lyrics talk not only about living in the Mountain state, but also about living in life, and in this country and the unexpected trials that go along with it, and the things that we can do to change those things that are bad to things for the better. His music will engage you to trust and have faith, and if you close your eyes for just a minute, you can actually see the world as he paints it.
One of the joys in my life were the years that I spent playing in that band and getting to hear, and see first hand every week Spurgie use his music to heal and empower us.
The first year that I was in the band, we had a regular Saturday gig at Bentley's here in Charleston, a Thursday and Sunday gig at JT's Corner in Dunbar WV, and not one day of rehearsal. Don't get me wrong, I'm not knocking that, because it taught me something about listening closely. Spurgie would bring his songs to the gigs and those gigs were the rehearsal, but it was great because, every time we played them, we did something just a little different than before, and that kept it fresh and new.
A solid family man, who can throw a mean horseshoe, and can play a rhythm guitar to death, Spurgie and his beautiful wife Marti have a family that is reflected in his music...strong and beautiful. This may sound corny, but when Spurgie performs, oftentimes his children come to the shows and get just as dreamy eyed as some of the fans who Spurgie thrills with his music.
I can think back on times when we sent an entire nightclub into a frenzied dance, like the Whirling Dervishes of Sufi Islam, people would just lose their ego-centered selves and submit to the magnetism and light of his music.
One slightly crazy but beautiful thing about Spurgie's music is that people so identify with it that when I first starting sitting in with the band they would come to the stage and almost threaten me if I didn't play something right, or if they didn't think that the sax part or flute part fit with a particular song...they take their Spurgie love that seriously.
I have the honor to call him one of my truest friends, he is a person who always is encouraging and always real.
One of the nicest things that he ever did for me was to hire my good friend Kevin Kidd as his bassist. It was just a hunch on my part, but I really felt like they would be a good fit, and I think that I was right; but it took Spurgie to make it click.
Over the last few years I've been slightly saddened because I haven't been able to get time to come and play with them for awhile now, and I miss it. The great thing about it though is that Spurgie always welcomes me with open arms.
There are quite a few people in Charleston whose songs I know by heart; lock stock and barrell, and his is among that group.
I'm inspired by the love that eminates from his music, I'm empowered by the beauty of his melodies, and I'm enthralled by the spirit of his friendship.
Spurgie Hankins is a survivor, whose music "sounds like Africa, it sounds like Spain, it sounds like India, it sounds like rain, it sounds like thunder, it sounds like pain, it sounds like everything...I just can't explain the sound."
One thing that I hope for you, my readers is that his music will never be forever gone. his music is life, and this much I can tell you...I'm really sure.

Catch Spurgie Hankins and friends at the Empty Glass Tuesdays at 10 pm.
Support Live Music today, tomorrow and always.

The Bolland Brothers, taking music to the Heights

2005-06-21T17:28:00.000-04:00

Say what you want, and truthfully many of us have a Bolland story or two, but we also have to remember that while both of them may be crazy and outrageous sometimes, Stanley and Lamont Bolland have infected us with some serious music over a 30 year period.

When I came to West Virginia in 1971, my first week in college there was an outdoor campus party held in front of the dormitory. The band that was playing was Ebony and the Greek, a funky power packed band that for all intents and purposes should have been on Soul Train (the hippest trip in America in the 70's).
On guitar completely setting the place on fire was one Stanley Von Bolland. Until that time I had heard some pretty fair guitarists over the years, but Stanley almost made you forget about Jimi Hendrix. He could groove like no one I had ever seen before or since.
Fast forward to 1973; Ebony and the Greek decided to move on without Stanley, so he sets out to start another band, and while deciding which style of music to play he decides to enlist his brother Lamont to play keyboards. Lamont had been studying piano pretty seriously for about 12 years ( if my memory serves me correctly). The Bolland Boys set out and just played here and there for a few months doing more jamming than anything else. Somewhere along the way their Father asked them "how come you guys don't have a name yet?" Stanley retorts that they don't really have a band yet, but we're workin' on it. Another 2 months go by and Stanley is piecing together some of Charleston's finest Black musicians, the band is starting to come together, his Dad again asks the question; what's the name gonna be? Mr. Bolland decides to take the bull by the horns, he takes Stanley to the front door of their house and asks him to look up and tell me what you see... a puzzled Stanley replies: clouds! What kind of clouds? Still not certain, Mr. Bolland jumps the gun and says they're Stratus clouds, thus giving birth to the name that is now going on thirty two years ( coincidentally that same month drummer Billy Cobham, released an album called "Spectrum," and the single from that album is entitled Stratus, and it was huge hit in the jazz fusion era!!).
Stanley and Lamont build the band, and they start playing around town, and in short order everybody in town who were fans of Ebony and the Greek all but abandon them for the new Funky groovemeisters.
Lamont would lay down some killer licks on the Fender Rhodes electric piano, he was also the first person in Charleston to have a Moog synthesizer and an Arp Odyssey, and Stanley could program that thing to do all kinds of stuff (well, I was impressed at least !).
It's 1974, Johnny "Redd" Booker joins the band as the lead vocalist, they get a gig in Detroit next, Jo Loyd as the drummer, Michael "Stoney" Burks on trumpet, back in Charleston, they now pick up Ernie Alexander on bass one more co-lead vocalist Alethia Helm and Dugan Carter on the tenor sax, Jimmy McLaughlin on percussion and Stratus is on their way to Charleston music history.
This band could kick any pro band out there in the butt, and they had the stuff to do it. Killer vocals, the rhythm section of life and a horn section that only Earth Wind and Fire could match.
Now it's 1976, they're playing an ongoing regular gig at the Gentleman's Club, and Johnny Redd decides one night to play "Stump the Band," someone calls out "Sara Smile," the Hall and Oates megahit, but no one knew it until a kid from the Bronx says that he knows it. They get him up to sing and the next thing you know Charlie Tee the singer is born. Stanley hounded me for the next year and when Johnny Redd leaves the band around Christmas of 1977, I get the call to become the next Stratus lead vocalist and I stayed there until 1980.
Of course I too left, over irreconcilable differences, but Stratus is still going strong.
As I said earlier, the Bolland Boys have done much to give everyone a headache now and again, but they remain Charleston musical stalwarts and because of them many of us are reaching the heights in music and for that much at least, we must be grateful

I once saw a business card for Ebony and the Greek, and since they're no longer together, I'll apply what the card said to Stratus and the Bolland Brothers, they are "foremost in funky music."

This isn't the complete history of Stratus, or the Bolland Brothers, but it's an abridged version.

Catch Stanley and Lamont Bolland with Stratus right here in the Charleston area.
Also, catch Lamont with his other group Full Flavor, featuring Dugan Carter on sax and Warren Pope on drums.
Check for local listings.

Ted Harrison, bottom line quiet dignity.

2005-06-16T12:17:00.000-04:00

There are people who walk into your life and immediately cause things to change; your life takes on a better tone, and without realizing it you are uplifted...Ted Harrison is that kind of person.
Long before Ted and I played in the Carpenter Ants together, we attended the same college, and although I'd seen him in school, I didn't know him per se'. Now that I do let me tell you about a man that can make me smile with the mere mention of his name.
James T. Harrison II is one of those people who can astound you with his memory, abilities and his attention to detail, he's a good listener, and a great musician.
Ted is the bassist for my band, the Carpenter Ants, he's a native of St.Albans WV, and gainfully employed for 24+ years for Verizon, the telephone conglomerate.
I never had the joy or pleasure of having a baby brother in real life and so Ted has fit that bill for me just nicely thank you. He is the kind of brother that I always wished that I had as we share alot of the same interests in quite a few things. He is also one of the most decent people that I've ever known, and can be a very quick wit if you give him room.
One of the things that fascinates me about his musical abilities are his ears, Teddy can pick up a melody in nothing flat, and in our musical realm in the Carpenter Ants, that is a necessary entity. Generally speaking, when we learn our material more often than not it's Ted who sets the pace for us to learn it, for me as a saxophonist and as a vocalist that is a Godsend.
As a saxophonist I tend to play a little sharp ( that sound just appeals to me) and playing against a good bass line makes that standpoint very easy, and Ted makes it effortless.
Very often during the course of my day, I think alot about the songs that we do, and I find myself constantly humming the basslines that Ted lays down...they're just fun, PERIOD !!
I truly consider myself a very lucky man in my quest for playing music fulltime, and having friends like Ted has made my journey a palatable one because his abilities, musicianship and more than anything his friendship have illuminated my road ahead.
As most bassists do, in any melody they hold down the bottom of that melody, and in the case of Ted Harrison, the bottom line is quiet dignity, and even more...just a wonderful sound.

You can catch Ted playing with the Carpenter Ants most every Wednesday night at the Empty Glass, 410 Elizabeth St. Charleston WV 25301

Also check him, and us out on our CD's:
"Long Live the Queen."
"Picnic With the Lord."
"The Insect Ball." (EP)

Winston Walls, the baddest of the bad.

2005-06-10T22:00:00.000-04:00

When you think of the organ, generally you think of Church on Sunday, baseball games, or really old movies.These days when I think of the organ, I've got blinders on for man only...
Winston Walls.
"Dad," is truly one of the greatest musicians of my life, he is a force that even Darth Vader couldn't deal with. Winston makes an organ scream to life, and roar with the kind of excitement that makes you think that he's making serious love to this instrument.
I first met my "other Dad" in 1971 when I came to the Charleston area as a student at West Virginia State College. He was holding everybody's attention at the Athletic Club. My real Dad and I had come to Charleston after I got settled in at my dormitory. He and I were going to celebrate my going to college.
Arriving at the club there was a line of people who looked as though if they weren't admitted some terror would seriously arise. One guy even told the doorman "man you better let me in this place, I ain't BS'in." After we got in all we could see were women dressed to the nines sitting by the stage with their legs crossed and looking very wantonly at the man on stage.
Winston didn't waste a minute of their time either, he mowed them down with some incredible music and even more incredible musicianship. It was like being at the circus and watching the trapeze artist mesmerize everyone.
Well, I jumped up out my seat on his break and went right up to him and introduced myself, and told him that I played the saxophone and that I also am a singer, so he invited me up to sing. "Ode to Billy Joe" was the song and we took Billy Joe uptown baby. Winston and I have been "Dad and Son" friends ever since.
Over the years Winston has been a mainstay in my life. There have been a number of times when I was ready to quit playing music, as well as a number of reasons, but I can still hear Winston in my ears telling me "Cholly (as he calls me...) don't ever give this music up, you're too good at what you do ( I'm actually sitting here right now crying, at the thought of how much he has inspired me...I'm so lucky to know this man) ."
Here's a funny story and a testament to how much we value anything that Winston has to say:
When the Carpenter Ants were in the studio recording our 2nd CD "Picnic With The Lord," we decided that we wanted Winston to play on the CD, so we got him to town ( he lives in Florida during the Winter months). For more than a few years Michael Lipton and I argued and argued over a standpoint in one of the songs that we do called "Workin' On a Building." Mike argued that when we sang the song, that the "harmonies didn't sound right."I argued that it was right because it was dissonant, although, I never elaborated on why that dissonance was good. Fast forward back to the recording session...here we are in the familiar argument again only this time Winston is there, so we turn to him for advice, which at first he was reluctant to give. "I'm just here to play what you want." After some considerable badgering from Michael, Winston says "goddammit, if you want to play some Nigger music, this is how you play it," and proceeds to play it the very way that I've sung it for years. He says dissonance, goddammit, is how you play Black music. Only a person that brilliant would bother to show you your shortcomings, and really make you take notice.

"Dad," you are forever my musical hero, as well as one of my dearest friends, I thank you for all of your gifts to me as a musician, and as a man. Thank you for all that you've taught me.

Be sure to pick up a copy of Winston's great CD entitled "Boss Of the B-3." It's available at most music stores and online.

Standing In The Shadows Of Music Too

2005-06-07T23:19:00.000-04:00

Welcome to Standing In The Shadows Of Music Too. On this blogsite I am going to talk about some of the musicians that I've been fortunate enough to be around, as well as some of the people that I've actually worked with. This site is really about people who are trying to do the same thing that I'm doing...trying to make it in music.
Why this? Well in the area that I live in and travel around there are some great characters, some great musicians and singers, and alot of their music has affected me, and/ or coincided with mine in many ways...it's almost like six degrees of separation.
I'll try not to be too critical of the ones that I'm not necessarily fond of ( I mean no malice toward anyone); mainly because I really understand what it's like to have this dream. What I wish to do is to try and empower people in some way, so if I don't paint the best picture, it's only because I really want all of us to succeed. My sincere hope is that just as in my regular blogsite I want to create a dialogue among musicians and those who are fans of music.
So again, welcome and thanks for being musicians and / or fans of music...enjoy these postings