Friday, December 30, 2005

Last night was the first "Thilly Thurthday" at Porter's Pub open mic hosted by Maria...now to be held the last Thursday of each month. It's a "dress up" occasion...so to speak. Had a good deal of fun, with a minimum of smoke in the air (always a plus for me...) Thanks to Paul Berger for joining me on one song...come on down some Thursday!   Check the WHERE/WHEN page on this site for upcoming gigs: Jan. 12th in Macungie with Todd Wolfe and Jan. 14th in Easton with Randall Smith.  Good stuff!!

Chas

Monday, December 12, 2005

Had an enjoyable evening at Porter's last Thursday...thanks to Dan and Jake for joining me.  I was very happy to receive the original framed drawing by the very talented artist Chris Carter...thanks so much. See the following link:

www.crcarter.com/chas1.html

Last night was an historic event...sort of...the last LVBN blues jam at the Emmaus Fire House (hosted by Roman).  Had a good time...prompted mostly by a nostalgic memory of the great jams hosted by the late Al G. The jam is moving down the street to the Owl's Nest...more later. The upcoming duo gig with Todd Wolfe is scheduled for Thursday, January 12th at a venue to be named in Macungie...I'll let you know when I know...see ya...

Chas

Friday, December 2, 2005

Great musical week. Tuesday went to the jam at Macungie Pub, Wednesday to the Bluetone and Thursday to the open mic at Porter's Pub.  Just booked a gig at Camden's Canalside Restaurant on Jan. 14...plus, have a duo gig with Todd Wolfe early next year...details later...  Just learned that CD Baby has sold out of cd's again...please hold tight, I will try to get them another batch asap!!

Chas

Sunday, November 27, 2005

Mississippi Pig Farmers put on a great show at the Bluetone Friday evening.  Thanks for letting me sing and play a couple of numbers with them...and thanks also to the fabulous Black Widow Band who let me join them also on Saturday evening when they, too, tore the place up!!  And a thank you to Eiji Kondo from Japan who ordered the CD from Japan thru CD Baby...did you order one yet??

Chas

Sunday, November 20, 2005

Great musical weekend!  Thanks to neighbor Todd Wolfe for inviting Michelle Glass and me to join the boys for their acoustic performance at the Raubsville Inn on Friday night (with the multi-talented Charlie Hilbert no less!)  It was a real blast.  The following link will take you to the website of the extraordinary artist, Chris Carter, who captured the event in watercolor:

www.crcarter.com/chas1.html

Saturday evening we joined Kassi Furman with Vince Mondello and company at Cozmo's...a great venue.  Perhaps you may be seeing us there sometime in the future...why don't you mention it to Darlene??

Chas

Sunday, November 13, 2005

Thanks to "Hurricane Mason" for inviting me to sit in with his band Thursday evening at the Jones'n Club in Tulsa, OK.  You guys rock!!  Fabulous show last night at the Bluetone...Byther Smith from Chicago...the real deal.  Looking forward to the Mississippi Pig Farmers gig, Friday 11/25.  NEWS!!!  You can now buy the cd on www.BestBuy.com!!! Go to:

www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?id=pcmcat68000050003&type=category

Then plug in "Chas" under search and guess what comes up first??  Go ahead...give it a try!!

Chas

Monday, October 24, 2005

It was an usually great evening at Porter's Pub on Thursday...presented another 'new' song (although it's been around for several years, just not played publicly) - "Old Highway Blues".  Enjoyed yesterday's benefit concert for Midnight Shift at the Bluetone.  Thanks to the fabulous Mary Hawkins for inviting me to join her along with Don Mayer, Dave, Rob and Glenn Wasserman to close out the evening.  Great fun!

Chas

Saturday, October 8, 2005

Full evening...went to the open mic at the Rathskellar Pub in Frenchtown (The National Hotel) hosted by Alex Wolfson...then joined Todd Wolfe and Co. to close out their evening at the Raubsville Inn..(thanks, Todd!)...then went to see the Wily Goats at Pearly Baker's (good stuff) and ended up at the Bluetone...but Craig Thatcher had already wrapped up...went home to a leaky roof and a flooded basement...  That was fun!

Chas

Friday, October 7, 2005

Showcased two never-before played tunes last evening at the Porter's Pub Open Mic..."The Other Side of 2:00" and "Someday Autumn Song".  Maria is back from her honeymoon...it was an interesting evening.  Think I need something new and different...hmmmmm.

Chas

Saturday, September 24, 2005

Did a last minute solo gig at the Bluetone Thursday evening...to a small but appreciative audience.  Thanks to Michelle Glass for lending her singing talents.  Only did two cover tunes the whole evening...how do you like that?  So...now I know that I can actually do that...now what? Well, let's see...any suggestions?

Chas

Sunday, September 11, 2005

Well, the weather was great...the music was fun, but it would have been nice to have a better turnout Friday evening.  Thanks to those who did come...hope you had a good time.  Thank you to Bob Thena and the Spuds for the invitation...Jo and Andy for hosting the event...and the musicians who joined in; Randy, Bones, Paul and Jim.  Keep your eye here for future events...now I'm doing some recording...

Chas

Monday, August 29, 2005

Whew...busy weekend!  Started with the open mic at Porter's Pub on Thursday...thanks to Mance for assisting me with his resonator.  Friday evening we thoroughly enjoyed Clarence Spady's performance at the Bluetone...thanks for letting me join in!!  Saturday was the annual Greenaway Summer Bash...great music, great fun.  Then Sunday, enjoyed the music and the opportunity to perform at the annual Guerrero family picnic...played solo, and then with friends...

****Next event...Quadrant Coffee Shop - Friday, September 9th...tell your friends!!****

Chas

Saturday, August 20, 2005

Great jam Wednesday night at the Bluetone.  The set with Mike Dugan and Todd Wolfe both playing guitar was unbeatable!!  Introduced a new song at Porter's Pub Thursday evening - "Meaning" (I haven't really decided what it will be titled...).  Big thanks to my buddy Jake Heck for joining in and filling out the sound with his talented guitar licks.  Next appearance will be at the annual "Al G" Fest (Guerrero Family picnic) - Sunday 8/29.  Will also be playing at the annual Greenaway Summer Bash on Saturday...looks like a fun weekend!!  Mark your calendars...September 9th at the Quadrant again.  Hope to see you there!!

Chas

Saturday, August 6, 2005

Fun-packed evening last night.  Enjoyed Maria Woodford at the Monsoon Gallery in Bethlehem for the opening of Chris Carter's exhibit (see Links page).  Then went to hear Todd Wolfe's set at Musikfest...back to join Maria at the gallery, then did a solo set.  Next we were off to Pearly Baker's to enjoy hearing Ron Sunshine (great singer/harp player).  Lastly, went to sit in with Steve Brosky at Porter's Pub.  Got to sleep WAY past my bedtime!!  Watch for information on another event at the Quadrant in September!!

Chas

Sunday, July 31, 2005

Had a great Pocono Blues Fest weekend.  Started off Friday evening enjoying (and sitting in with) B.C. and the Blues Crew at Split Rock Lodge, the Midnight Shift at Mountain's Edge...thanks, guys!!  Saturday's lineup was outstanding!!  Especially enjoyed seein' our friends L'il Ed and the Blues Imperials and John Primer, along with young harp player Dan Beaver. .  Had the treat of sitting and talking with Carey Bell between one of his sets with son Lurrie - a true gentleman.  Guess it's time to get back to the grind now...

Chas

Monday, July 25, 2005

Friday evening at Pearly Baker's was especially enjoyable...many good friends showed up...the atmosphere was charged, and the weather was particularly nice.  I've added a link on the "Links" page to Ken Barry's website, www.wirething.com.  Check out this very unique and innovative new type of guitar pick....clever boy!!  This coming weekend is one of the summer's highlights - the Pocono Blues Festival...gonna make it??  Maybe we'll see ya there!!

Chas

Monday, July 18, 2005

Ok...bit of a disappointment with the scheduling mix-up at "Friend's Cafe"...but we're still on for Pearly Baker's this Saturday, 7/23.  Added a link to the website of Chris Carter - very fine artist...check it out!  Thanks to Christian Bassarak and Uda Brinkmann, both from Germany, who recently purchased a copy of the cd through CD Baby...  Did you get yours yet??

Chas

Tuesday, July 12, 2005

Had a great trip to New Orleans - fabulous food, always great music.  This Friday, 7/15 - doing a solo thing at Friend's Cafe - 548 Main Street, Bethlehem - Phone: 610-997-8808 - 7:00 or so...come on out...bring your axe!!  Saturday, July 23rd back at Pearly Baker's in Centre Square, Easton.  Watch for information on the BLUES TRAIN...

Chas

Monday, June 27, 2005

More fun at Pearly Baker's last Friday...thanks to John Greenaway for joining in and adding some great guitar licks...I'm off to New Orleans for a few days...gotta get me a Hurricane...

Chas

Sunday, June 19, 2005

Had a great time at Pearly Baker's Friday evening...gonna do it again this coming Friday, the 24th...come on down!!  Two highlights..."Smooth Sailin" and "Gale's Song"...have you heard 'em??  (If you play, bring your axe...)

Chas

Sunday, June 12, 2005

Big thanks to all who came down to the Quadrant last Friday.  The rain held back, we had great fun and even sold some CD's.  Thanks, too, to Todd Wolfe for inviting me up to play with his guys at the finale on Sunday.  (Thanks also to Mike for letting me play with Midnight Shift Saturday evening at the Bluetone).  We will be at Pearly Baker's this coming Friday, June 17th...come on down!!

Chas

Friday, June 3, 2005

Well...had a very enjoyable time tonight. Accompanied Steve Brosky at the Indulge jam and played a whole set with an Ab harp at Porter's Pub, then joined my buddy Mance during his set... This year's Blue Moonshine Band will consist of Joe Yurko on drums, Jeff Van Sandt on bass, Randy Smith and Jake Heck on guitar, Ken Barry on sax and yours truly...rehearsed on Monday and it's gonna be great...can you stop down Friday the 10th??

****Gig at Quadrant Book Mart & Cafe - Friday June 10th!****

Chas

Friday, May 20, 2005

Just returned from my weekly Thursday evening visit to Porter's Pub - Songwriter's Brew.  I want to thank Jake again for sitting in on "Gracedale" and "Flood of '04 Blues".  Thanks also to Mance who invited me up to play along on Tom Wait's "Get Behind the Mule".  Had to leave before the second set.."beddy bye"

****Gig at Quadrant Book Mart & Cafe - Friday June 10th!****

Chas

Friday, May 13, 2005

Great jam at the Bluetone Wednesday.  Did a set with my old buddy Andy Kilcoyne (sp?) along with Todd, Rob and Dave.  Thursday did Indulge (with Arne) and Porter's where my buddy Jake Heck sat in and did a Jake of a job...(get it?).

****Gig at Quadrant Book Mart & Cafe - Friday June 10th!****

Chas

Friday, May 5, 2005

Just returned from an enjoyable evening at Porter's Pub...showcased three tunes.  Thanks to recent cd purchasers; Doak from Tennessee, Manfred from Hamburg, Germany, David from Bedford, UK, Katherine from San Diego and Benjamin from Lake Charles, LA.  CD Baby once again ran out of stock, but I just sent another bunch of cd's, so...If you went to CD Baby and they didn't have any, just wait a couple of days...Thanks!

****Gig at Quadrant Book Mart & Cafe - Friday June 10th!

Chas

Sunday, May 1, 2005

Another memorable evening at Porter's Pub Thursday...showcased some new tunes..."Train of Tears", "Slavedriver" and "Perennial Love"...well, not necessarily "new", but never performed publicly before...  The very talented Clarence Spady put on a great show at the Bluetone Friday, and very graciously extended the invitation to add some harp to a number of tunes.  I highly recommend you see these guys when you get the chance (they will be back at the Bluetone in August).

****Gig at Quadrant Book Mart & Cafe - Friday June 10th!

Chas

Wednesday, April 27, 2005

Moving day...Todd Wolfe and clan are all moved in next door.  Had a mini-housewarming party with some "Rock and Rye"...good stuff.  (Actually was intended to medicate against residual cough and cold...but it makes for nice celebrating too.)  Hope to showcase some more new tunes tomorrow at Porter's Pub...will keep you posted...

****Gig at Quadrant Book Mart & Cafe - Friday June 10th!

Chas

Sunday, April 10, 2005

Ooooh...busy week!  Featured the new tune - "Moppin' Up Again" with Todd Wolfe and the boys Wednesday evening at the Bluetone, then again at Porter's Pub Thursday evening.  Big thanks to Jack and Brenda for the invitation to play at the Open Mic at the Bethlehem Book Loft & The Caffiene Cafe last night.  Interesting mix of musicians.  I've added two additional links on the "Buy CD" page for digital downloads...check 'em out!

****Gig at Quadrant Book Mart & Cafe - Friday June 10th!!***

Chas

Monday, April 4, 2005

Easton got socked with major flooding again...Lehigh and Delaware well above flood stage.  Wrote a new song - "Moppin' Up Again" which I hope to showcase Wednesday at the Bluetone and Thursday at Porter's.  Had a lot of fun sittin' in with Bob Lanza and band Saturday evening.  Big thanks to Laura from Oregon who will be featuring the cd on the dinner train that she runs...thanks Laura!!  (She came across the cd on the CD Baby website).

****Gig at Quadrant Book Mart & Cafe - Friday June 10th!!***

Chas

Friday, April 1, 2005

OK...so I got lazy and didn't update for awhile...sorry!  Enjoyed sitting in with the great Black Widow Band/Larry Lacasta last Saturday at the Bluetone...these guys really play with heart!  Used my new Martin acoustic which I purchased from Todd Wolfe last night at Porter's...it's a great guitar, and a great open mic.  The latest news is the Easton Blues Jam which is now set for June 3 thru 12 with a finale at Easton's Riverside Park on the 12th...free to the public!!  We will once again be performing at the Quadrant Book Mart on Friday June 10th...tell your friends! (Check out www.EastonBluesJam.com).

Chas

Sunday, March 6, 2005

Thanks to DJ Mladen Loncar from Croatia who featured several songs from the CD on his program Monday.  Also appreciate Stewart Brodian bringing me into the WDIY studios on Tuesday to record several acoustic numbers...hope to get a copy on cd which I'll make available to anyone interested...four new originals, never previously recorded...(including 'Flood of '04 Blues')   Spring is on it's way!

Chas

Saturday, February 26, 2005

On a snowy, cold Thursday, caught the incredibly talented harp player Jason Ricci at the Bluetone.  His mastery of the instrument is something to behold.  Appreciate his kindness in letting me sit in with his band...although I said my harps don't seem to have all of the notes that his have...if you catch my drift.  If you have the opportunity, make it a point to see this guy!  Thanks again to the Mississippi Pig Farmers for letting me play with them last night...a bunch of real great musicians!  Also good to see Mary Hawkins up and about...she also sat in.

Chas

Sunday, February 20, 2005

Have added a new way to purchase the CD to the 'BUY CD' page...digital download!!  You can go to Mperia.com and download individual songs, or the whole CD.  Check it out!  For the third week in a row, went to Indulge and Porter's Pub Thursday evening...makes for an interesting evening.  Thanks to KATO (Craig Kastelnik and Patty) who let me sit in with with them Friday night at Gypsy Rose...then later sat in with Sarah Ayers and her band at the Bluetone...had fun...thanks!  The latest strange turn of events...Todd Wolfe and family may be moving in next door...this is gonna be a rockin' neighborhood!!  Will keep you posted...

Chas

Friday, February 11, 2005

Well...had just as much fun (or more...) last night at both the Indulge and Porter's Pub as last week...this is gonna become a habit.  Thanks to Chuck for lettin' me play thru his vintage Fender...and spring for two glasses of Zinfindel.  Maria does a fine job hosting the open mic at Porter's, and I was again able to showcase five tunes.  I'm gradually overcoming my natural-born fear of performing solo...even remembering all of my own chords and lyrics!!! ...even sold some cd's...doesn't get much better than that.   I want to give a special thanks to the lovely and charming Mari Kizaki from San Francisco who was in town a couple of weeks ago.  She was very generous and kind enough to go to the trouble of translating the Japanese review into English for me...I will, when possible, add it to the Reviews page...Thanks, Mari!!

Chas

Friday, February 4, 2005

Had a hoot last night...first at the Indulge jam and Sarah's Ayer's band...then off to the first open mic night at Porter's Pub in Easton hosted by the lovely and talented Maria Woodford.  Lots of musical talent all evening, got to showcase five songs as well as jam with Maria, Alex and Mark (?) on drums...watch this place, it's happenin'!!

Chas

Thursday, January 27, 2005

Thanks to Josiah for posting the review from the Japanese magazine; Car Audio - January 2005 issue "Best Style 2004".  Now, can anybody translate it?  (Maybe I shouldn't ask!).  Thanks to Angel Dehesa from Mexico, Claudio Tosatto from Italy and Joost from the Netherlands (see Guestbook) for giving the cd airplay in your respective lands...noticed an increased number of hits to the website, too!!  More fun at the club Indulge tonight...did a respectable rendition of "Gracedale", which will no doubt be included in the "next" cd...whenever!  Looking forward to Kassi Furman's dinner concert tomorrow evening...will report back later...

Chas

Thursday, January 20, 2005

Interesting evening at the Bluetone last night.  Guess the snow kept folks home.  No matter...got some good licks in.  Jammed with Todd, Dave, Rob, Arne and a bunch of others.  Took a crack at "It Ain't Right" (Little Walter), "I Need My Baby" (Big Walter) and "Mystery Train" (Jr. Parker).  Even sat in on drums with The Bixbies (Cryin' - Roy Orbison)...thanks Dave, for letting me step in!  Thanks to Charlie Bersch for getting the '63 Tremolux back in action...you da man!

Chas

Thursday, January 13, 2005

OK...CD Baby is re-stocked now...go ahead and place your order.  Thanks to our new acquaintances from various corners of the globe who just signed into the Guestbook.  We need someone from China to visit and sign in...know anyone?  Does anyone in China listen to the blues? Had fun jamming again at the Indulge tonight...big thanks to Sarah for her kind words...I think I need to put a link to her website on the Links page...

Chas

Friday, January 7, 2005

***FLASH!!!  Just received word from CD Baby that they have once again sold out of the cd.  Please be patient while we send them a new consignment...check back in a week or so.  Thanks for your understanding!!***

Back to the Indulge last night...did a great rendition of "I'm Ready" with Arne, Sue, Leon and Bryan...(and that guy on the recorder, or whatever it is...).  Also a little bit of "Born in Chicago"...and some other stuff.  Interesting jam there...place is almost empty, so you can play more...and it's over at 9!  This just in!!!  Kassi Furman is doing another one of her "Jazzmosis" dinner concerts (and jam) at the Almond Tree Manor in Alpha, NJ - 6:30-10 on Saturday, 1/29.  Make your reservations soon!!  Price: $32.95/person.  E-mail me at harpman@ChasHarp.com for details.  (You won't be disappointed!)  I won't get into the flubbed performance at Godfrey Daniels last Sunday...I hate it when I forget the words to my own songs...still, it had it's high points...See ya round!

Chas

Sunday, January 2, 2005

Was a "jam-packed" week...went to the Macungie Pub on Tuesday, Bluetone on Wednesday and Indulge on Thursday.  Each had it's highlights, but especially enjoyed jamming with Arne and Sue on Thursday.  Big thanks to Arne for loaning me the Little Walter biography - "Blues with a Feeling"...fascinating reading!!  I count Little Walter as my biggest influence in harp playing, the guy was incredible.  A special thanks to the Caio Babies from Japan who sent a copy of first 2005 issue of "Car Audio" magazine which includes a review of the cd.  Will post it to the "CD Reviews" page shortly...anybody speak Japanese?

Chas

Thursday, December 23, 2004

Good jam at the Bluetone last night...enjoyed playing with that guitar ace Randall Smith (he's showcased in several songs on the cd).  Dawn Dengler ably handled the drums.  Tonight we did it again at the Indulge...again with Randy...assisted by Wild Bill on drums and Leon on bass.  Picked up a copy of Sarah Ayers' cd...you should too!  Good stuff!!  The review of our cd from a Japanese magazine has been published...waiting to get a copy.  Can anybody translate Japanese to English??

Chas

Thursday, December 16, 2004

Tuesday was a first...participated in the blues jam at Warmdaddy's in Philadelphia hosted by old pal Randy Lippincott.  Had a very enjoyable time!!!  Great venue...fabulous food (had the dry-rubbed ribs...mmmmm!)...nice set up and terrific sound system.  Thanks to Randy...the guys I jammed with... and Joey for letting me play thru his vintage Gibson.  I think I'd like to do that again some time...(although that's a bit of a hike from Easton!). Got a check coming in the mail from CD Baby...seems as if the cd has been getting some mp3 play...that's a pleasant surprise!

Chas

Sunday, December 5, 2004

Enjoyed a good jam at the Bluetone on Wednesday.  My buddy, John Greenaway came and tore things up real good on guitar.  Went to a "Re-Housewarming" party yesterday for our friends Jerome and Denise, to assist in their recovering losses caused by the Flood of '04...had a great time.  Jerome was mentioned in the lyrics of the "Flood of '04 Blues" (see the Reviews page).  It's true, they DID lose two cars in the flood, I just saw the photos.  Also learned that (Brother) George Benson wrote a song for their wedding.  How is it they seem to inspire songwriters?  I'll have to see if I can get a copy of the cd to George!!  Maybe we can get together and jam...

Chas

Thursday, November 18, 2004

Another good jam at the club "Indulge" in Allentown tonight.  Suavek surprised everyone with a Polish rendition of 'House of the Rising Sun'...Sarah Ayers does a good job of keeping things interesting.  Looking forward to the coming holiday weekend...probably end up at the Bluetone to see Mary Hawkins with the Mississippi Pig Farmers.  I've got some more new songs in the creative stages...where should I launch them?

Chas

Monday, November 8, 2004

We were happy to be present for one of the first appearances of Mike Mettalia's new band "Midnight Shift" Friday evening in Easton...great job Mike and company!!  Thanks for inviting me to sit in and do some "Walter" stuff...both "Big" and "Little"!!  From there we stopped by the College Hill Tavern and enjoyed the Rockabilly Rebels...who certainly were not limited to rockabilly...Hendrix, Cream, Stones, Z.Z. Top...I knew these guys could play the blues...so they DID (with a little bit of harp assist). Sunday, the LVBN jam at Emmaus was interesting as usual...showcased "Flood of '04 Blues" to an appreciative crowd.  Thanks to Luc from Viroflay, France and Tom from Union, NJ...recent CD purchasers...did you get YOUR copy yet??

Chas

Monday, October 25, 2004

Had a great time at the benefit concert held at the club Indulge in Allentown Sunday for Mary Hawkins.  Even though her band is representing the Lehigh Valley Blues Network in next year's International Blues Challenge, there was a disappointing lack of LVBN presence there.  I even heard that they held the weekly jam at the same time...can't quite figure that.  Maybe somebody can straighten me out!  A lot of great music, and was glad to have had the opportunity to lend a little harp support.  Big thanks to Al Wanamaker for playing a good portion of my cd between sets.  I understand they're gonna schedule another benefit concert before end of the year...how about a little more support?

Chas

Sunday, October 10, 2004

Just returned from a wonderful (12) day visit to Spain and France.  Great weather, great food, great people...  Big thanks to Shane, Mar and Mar's folks in Sitges, Spain for the kind hospitality and unsurpassed generosity shown...can't wait to return!!  Paris was indescribable!!  Crammed in an unbelievable amount of "tourism" in about four days!!  Learning to maneuver the Metro was extremely useful...zipped around from the hotel to Champs to Monmartre to the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Orsay...Versaille, etc. etc.  So sad that the "Front Page" blues club has closed...pity...  We were overwhelmed by the generosity and warmth shown to us by Lysday and Ghislain...thanks so much!!!  Oh well...back to reality... (Life may not be the same!)

Chas

Sunday, September 26, 2004

Very good jam at the Bluetone on Wednesday...I think everyone needed a little relief after the brutal beating we took from Hurricane Ivan...  Many thanks to Todd, Dave, Ken and Joe who assisted in the showcasing of "The Flood of '04 Blues" which we played for the first time...went pretty well, I thought...was fun, at least!  Much to my surprise, Kurt, who played drums that evening, is also a reporter for the Express-Times, and wrote a very complimentary piece which was published in Sunday's paper...thanks Kurt!!   Had the thrill of playing with Lil' Ed and the Blues Imperials...those guys really rock!! Hope to have some photos to showcase here soon...  If you haven't seen these guys, you owe it to yourself to catch them the next time they pass through the area...

Chas

Tuesday, September 21, 2004

Aftereffects of Ivan wreaked havoc here in Easton...we had no power for 2-1/2 days.  Floodwaters of the Delaware and Lehigh Rivers and Bushkill Creek overflowed and caused considerable damage.  Jammed with B.C. and the Blues Crew Friday evening...got home after midnight, and then the thunderstorms began.  Rivers continually rose until Sunday...now it's all mud.  The website server was also down on Monday...so, if you tried to stop by...we weren't there!!  Anyway, wrote a blues song about it...plan on showcasing it tomorrow night at the Bluetone jam...

Chas

Sunday, September 12, 2004

Had a great time Friday evening at the Quadrant in downtown Easton.  Many thanks to Jo and Andy for inviting us back for this FIFTH annual appearance...kicking off this year's Easton Blues Jam.  Thanks also to Bob and Oli, this year's promoters...you're doing a great job!!  Looking forward to future successes!!  This year's participants: Jake Heck, Randy Smith, Louie Loukas, Bill Tanner and Chris Gannon...with special guest appearances by Tara Gannon and Kassi Furman.  Everyone played their hearts out and the ladies really tore it up!!  For all who showed up and gave us enthusiastic support...thanks so much (and thanks to Anthony for coming up and singing with us...in F sharp!!).  We will let you know when next year's festivities are scheduled!!

Chas

Thursday, September 2, 2004

Hmmmmm...so what's new?  Gearing up for the annual Quadrant gig on September 10th opening up the 5th Annual Easton Blues Jam.  I believe we are the ONLY act that has played EACH year during this event...(you can correct me if you like...)  Hoping that Hurricane Francis doesn't rain us out... Went to the LVBN Jam in Emmaus last Sunday to showcase three brand new songs (acoustic guitar, vocal and harp in a harp-rack).  Nobody threw anything...broke a string...I'm sorry, but I miss the Al G days... Went to the jam last night at the Bluetone...nothing outstanding to report...thanks to Glenn for preventing a trainwreck on the last song...seemed as if everyone was playing a different song at the same time...much thanks to Dave Hollingsworth and Rob Frazier...you know a great rhythm section can save almost anything!!!  Going to Spain and France the end of the month...and yes, I'll be playing...counting on my buddy Vicente in Barcelona to come through...details with video at 11:00...

Chas

Monday, August 9, 2004

Had a great time at the Riverfront Blues Festival in Wilmington, DE this past weekend...too much to relate!!  This is one of the best festivals around folks...$15 for two days, fabulous lineup, good location... check it out next year!  I was overwhelmed by the positive review just published by Peter "Blewzzman" Lauro posted at www.Mary4Music.com...it's great to see credit given to all the talented musicians who poured their hearts into the making of this cd.  In fact, I'm so blown away by it...I thought I'd look into adding a "CD Reviews" page on this site so you can read some of the nice things Peter and others have written about the cd...keep checkin' back!!  Spoke with Larry Holmes Friday evening and may be able to convince him to book a blues act at his Ringside Lounge during the Easton Blues Jam...we'll be at the Quadrant on Friday, September 10th...hope you can make it!!

Chas

Sunday, August 1, 2004

Enjoyed sitting in with the Mississippi Pig Farmers at the Bluetone on Friday and Slim and the Maxwell St. Band at the Wardell on Saturday.  Big thanks to Van Whitmore for playing music from the cd on Saturday's 'Bluesville' program, plus some very kind words!!  You can catch him on various blues programs on WDIY... Visit www.WDIY.org and enjoy the streaming music... Also was very pleased with the complimentary review of the cd by Rick Beall at www.BluesHarp.org...check it out!  (You can add your comments if you like!).  Got several new tunes developing...what to do with them?

Chas

Sunday, July 25, 2004

Saturday at the Pocono Blues Festival was a real treat!  Despite negative reports, the weather was great.  Big thanks to Dave Grogan with Effects Unltd., who graciously played six tracks from the cd between sets at the main stage.  Afterwards, went to Mountain's Edge and had the treat of jamming with Nora Jean Bruso, Eddie C. Campbell, Eddie & Vaan Shaw and the Wolfgang and Billy Branch!!  Then Kenny Neal and Lonnie Shields joined the fun.  Bobby Rush and friends were also there...great time!  Now we're looking forward to the Riverfront Blues Festival in Wilmington in two weeks...going??

Chas

Friday, July 23, 2004

Lehigh Valley Blues Fest was a great success (as expected).  Especially enjoyed Deborah Coleman and Big Bill Morganfield...congrats Dave Small!! (Had the privilege of sitting in with them...).  NEWS item: Easton Blues Jam - September 10 thru 19th.  Will once again be performing outdoors at the Quadrant...details to follow!!  Planning a trip to Spain with possible performances in Barcelona and Paris...will advise.  Even though the weather is looking VERY uncooperative...looking forward to the Pocono Blues Festival this weekend...hope to see you there!!  If I get in the mood, might join Charlie Hilbert tonight down in Easton...hmmmm...

Chas

Thursday, July 15, 2004

Was pleasantly surprised that, despite the rainy weather, the jam at the Lehigh Valley Blues Fest went on anyway last night.  Even though I arrived late, want to thank Glenn W. for getting me right up...had fun, and Glenn did a great job of making something out of less than ideal circumstances!  Looking forward to a great weekend with Tommy Castro, Sue Foley, Deb Coleman, Janiva Magness, Big Bill Morganfield and others!!   Thanks to Peter "Blewzzman" Lauro who will be reviewing the cd for the Mary4Music website...  It's a treat to have someone who is a contributing writer for BluesWax.com and Big City Blues magazine (among others) giving attention to the cd...watch this space for details or visit www.Mary4Music.com!!  Getting anxious to record again...any wealthy benefactor who is interested in funding another cd project, just contact me...I'll give you special rights for the production!!  (Hey, it's worth a try...)...Blues blessings...

Chas

Monday, July 5, 2004

Glad to have Todd Wolfe back to host the jam at the Bluetone last Wednesday...great jam!  Thanks to Adrian who continues to act as my downtown 'agent', selling the cd with her Watkins products...go visit her in Centre Square some Saturday AM.  Thanks to recent purchasers Claudia in Dorral, Quebec and Markus in Lotte, Germany...(Claudia bought two!!)  Also...Tony from Metairie, LA and my first cd sale to someone in Italy...Salvatore from Monzese, MI, Italy!! Grazie!!  Best wishes to Richard and Judy as they continue their 'tour'...He's a blues PLAYER but he's NOT singing the blues!  Keep doing what you're doing with passion, love and dedication...

Chas

Wednesday, June 23, 2004

Sad to hear Cookie Holley, indie music advocate, passed away on June 15th...was glad to have made her (e-mail) acquaintance while she was here...(see her Guestbook entry last October).  Thanks to Michel Rochette - 10,000 Blues in Canada for continuing to play the cd.  Also, congratulations to Shane and the lovely Mar from Sitges, Spain on their recent marriage...enjoyed meeting and enjoying the company of two other visitors from Spain...the lovely and charming Pip, and the suave and debonair Gabriel..(and HI to Pip's dad who apparently is a bass player from the U.K. - gonna have to get together and jam!)  Came across a great blues/indie music website (thanks to the Guestbook entry).  Check out www.Mary4Music.com!!  You can spend many hours of happy browsing...  Coming soon...more photos and maybe even video!

Chas

Saturday, June 12, 2004

It was good to see, and jam with, our old buddy Mike Gulden (from Rollin' & Tumblin') Wednesday at the Bluetone.  Looking forward to the release of his new cd very soon (with some VERY special guests!)  Had fun sitting in with the Mississippi Pig Farmers last night...Glenn and Arne at their best, as usual...  Many thanks to Terry Iredale, TECKA's TRACKS - Victoria, Australia, who continues to give the cd airplay...you da man!!  Anybody ever read the Guestbook?...go ahead and say something!  Adios for now...

Chas

Sunday, May 30, 2004

Good jam at the Bluetone Wed. evening...  Enjoyed the performances by Tad Robinson and Jimmy Johnson at Mayfair Friday evening...it was a pleasure meeting and speaking to Mr. Alex Schultz afterward.  Other concert plans we had for the weekend fell through due to various circumstances...so...went to the Lehigh Valley Blues Network jam at the Emmaus firehouse tonight...good to see and jam with some of 'the guys' again, (Jack Adams, Roman, Bobby Soul, Jed, and others...)  Have to admit I was somewhat 'miffed' that the cd did not get reviewed in the latest issue of the LVNB newsletter (I've been assured that it will be next time).   I'll get over it...renewed my annual membership anyway...(got to continue to support the blues, right?). If you'd like to read a VERY favorable review of the cd, go to http://es.geocities.com/zumel/criticas.htm.  Big thanks to Vicente Zumel from Barcelona, Spain whose very kind and supportive words were an unexpected treat.  I consider it a real privilege to have received a "GREAT" rating from this very knowledgeable and devoted blues lover!!  Thank, Vicente!!  Somebody want to sign a new entry in the Guestbook?  Rob from the Netherlands has been there too long! (He did get a copy of the cd for airplay...)  Stay cool...

Chas...out!

Sunday, May 16, 2004

Well...I went ahead and entered "High and Dry" in the Newsong Festival Contest...if deemed worthy, that'll mean an invite to perform at the festival in Charles Town, WV in August.  Check out http://newsongfestival.com.  If not, I'll be at the Guerrero annual picnic "fest"...  Thanks to some recent cd purchasers: Jim from Anderson, IN, Eric from Haleiwa, HI, Jamie from NY,NY, Brian from Edinburgh, Scotland, Douglas from Simpsonville, SC, Tryce from Centenial, CO, Chas from Redondo Beach, CA and on and on...  Have to express a deep debt of gratitude to Derek Sivers from CD Baby for all the incredible efforts he is putting forth for the benefit of independent musicians...because of the CD Baby connections, the cd is getting extensive marketing...which also translate into sales!  Great work, Derek!!!  Keep pluggin' away!!

Chas

Tuesday, May 11, 2004

Thanks to the folks who purchased the cd at the yard sale on Saturday...makes for good background music while you're going through those classic 33 rpm lp's or recycled curtain rods...  Thanks also to Mike Dugan for inviting me up to play with him that evening at the Bluetone...he even plugged the cd!  Mayfair's coming up soon...got to make it the 'Blues Night'!!  See ya there!!

Chas

Friday, May 7, 2004

Had an interesting week...last Thursday my PC "bluescreened"!! Got a new Dell...hooked it up...back in business.  Yes, Dell you may now pay me for the public endorsement...  Mulling over entering the 2004 Mountain Stage NewSong Festival Song Contest...I'll keep you posted...think I'll enter "High and Dry"...(song has to be under 4:00...most of mine AREN'T).  Thanks to Tecka's Tracks in Australia for continuing to play the cd...  Festival season's starting...where ya goin'??

Chas

Tuesday, April 27, 2004

Last Saturday at the Bluetone...The Dave Gross Band...watch this young man, he's going places!  Matt Mousseau on drums and Arthur Neilson on bass (yes THAT Arthur Neilson)...great stuff!! And I really appreciate their not throwing me off the stage when I joined them with a little bit of harp playing!  Sunday we thoroughly enjoyed seeing Curtis Salgado...(who called the next morning and had a nice chat with Janet while I was at work, but's that's another story).  Congrats to Mary Hawkins for winning the competition to represent the LVBN at the Int'l Blues Challenge next year in Memphis..you go girl!

Chas

Thursday, April 22, 2004

Well folks, you can now check the cd out from the compact disc section at the Easton Area Public Library (for those of you too cheap to buy one...).  From the music of hundreds of independent artists, Ars Nova has selected "C.E.O." to be included in "The Hottest Independent Artists Volume 7: The Blues" compilation.  Watch this space for more info...  Big, big thanks to Gi Dussault, WVOF 88.5 Fairfield, CT for including "Moonshine" in the playlist for "The Upper Room" which received airplay 24/7 for 10 days...whew...that's a lot of airplay!!  You can visit www.upperroomwithjoekelley.com.  Sent another cd to Spain today...keep watching this space...

Chas

Thursday, April 15, 2004

Got the tax payin' blues?   Go support live music!  (It'll help get your mind off it...).  Saw a great band in the blues capital of the Northeast (Towanda, PA) over the weekend...Curtis Winchester Band...great stuff!!  Check out www.TheCurtisWinchesterBand.com.  Sent cd's to Netherlands and England this week...  I've got the urge to play...guess I'll go check out the Gary Rissmiller Quintet tonight at Pan' e Vino in Bethlehem...these guys will knock your socks off!! (serious jazz)...later...

Chas

Thursday, April 8, 2004

Interesting jam at the Bluetone last night...not one that will stand out in my memory as a 'favorite'...  Was more fun playing with the 'Mississippi Pig Farmers' last Friday...  Want to say thanks to DJ Jos Potting from the Netherlands for playing 'C.E.O.' on Tuesday.  Also, thanks to Douglas Rapier in Taiwan for playing 'Pond Scum' and offering an invitation to perform in the music festival in Taiwan this coming Sept/Oct...(we're mulling it over...).  Guess there's an appreciative blues/jazz audience over there...ain't it great??  Somebody sign the 'Guestbook' and say something eloquent...insightful...esoteric...profound...coherent...whatever...(anything better than this)...

Chas

I've 'cleaned up' this Update page and removed a bunch of entries...left some of the more interesting ones...

Tuesday, March 30, 2004

Just got back from an abbreviated visit to sunny southern California.  Congrats to my folks on their 60th Wedding Anniversary!!  Had a great time jammin' at the LAST Thursday night blues jam at The Classroom in Northridge (L.A. area).  Thanks, guys...wish you the best!  ALSO...jammed with a great Dixieland band - "Main Street Jazz" (yeah...I can get into that too!!).  Very pleased to see the CD Baby sales are taking off.  If you haven't visited www.cdbaby.com, do yourself a favor and check it out.  Thanks to B.C. & the Blues Crew for letting me sit in with them a couple of weeks back at the Bluetone...these cats are pros!  Sent one cd to Italy and another to France today...check back for more updates...

Chas

Sunday, February 22, 2004

Had a great time playing with the guys at the Blakeslee Inn on Friday.  Very nice venue with fabulous food!  Watch this space for future gig announcements.  Happy to hear that Baby Gremlin and Baby Magic continue to play the cd in faraway Japan...thank you ladies!!  Just added Belgium to list of faraway places (now numbering 17) where the cd has gone for airplay...(I'm not including California and Oregon, altho they ARE far away...)  Actually, over sixty cd's have gone to various dj's for airplay...I think about 50/50 domestic/foreign...I'll have to make a comparison).

On a sad note, just learned that Jimmy Lawrence passed away on Feb. 9th.  He was a great singer and truly a fine gentleman, a major loss to the Lehigh Valley music scene...  (You can turn to John 5:28 & 29 for some comfort...).  Spin 'Early in the Morning' for some fine memories...

Chas

Monday, February 9, 2004 Not a lot new to report.  Weather has been a real bummer...think I'll head south.  If you're reading this and you're anywhere near Charleston, SC...check out the 'Low Country Blues Bash' goin' on right NOW.  Our buddy Shrimp City Slim has been puttin' this together for several years now...you won't be disappointed.  Just might show my face...  Big thanks to French Blues DJ Francis Rateau of 'Hot Time' (www.couleursfm.com).  Wrote a very nice review of the cd in 'Crossroads' magazine.  I'd love to check out the blues scene in France personally...hmmmmm.

Chas

Friday, January 23, 2004 OK...the jam at the Bluetone on Wednesday was from the Twilight Zone...ended up alright, but a strange journey...  The BIG NEWS: Met, spoke with, got a photo and left a copy of the cd with Mr. B.B. King last night...(we go waaayyy back... to about 10:15 pm)  A real gracious and kind gentleman...and a real thrill to meet such a 'living legend'.  Mary Hawkins also met the man...will have to hear her story...  Big thank you to Australian dj's Phil Knipe (Kind of Blues) and Geoff Pegler (Blues Beat) for continuing to play the cd in the land 'down under'...(gonna have to get down there some day...).  Big night tonight...Slim & Co. at the Bluetone, Thom Palmer at Pearly Baker's, Charlie Hilbert at Porter's Pub and Wolfe at the Riverside...gonna see how many I can catch!! I'll let you know...

Chas

Saturday, January 10, 2004

Had a nice little vacation in Niagara Falls...visited a great blues club in Buffalo, the Lafayette Tap Room (the band could have been better...)  Back to reality...good jam Thursday at the "Bar with No Name" in Bethlehem.  Highlights, Michelle Glass and Mary Hawkins...altho I didn't get to sing a set, just played (it's a vanity thing...I have more fun when I sing AND play...I'll get over it.) Thanks to all the guys playing songs from the cd: Ian Angus in Canada, Eric Black in Australia, and now have two new contacts in France who have offered very supportive words, and will be scheduling airtime soon...  I'll give you some great websites to check out next time...Later...

Chas

Saturday, December 6, 2003

Got lots to say...  Great new jam at the "Bar With No Name", Holiday Inn, Bethlehem on Thursday. Glenn, Todd, Suavic (?) and Dave as host band.  Many thanks to Mitch from 99.9TheHawk who hosted.  Was very pleased to meet Van from WDIY who spoke very highly of the cd and has been giving airplay on his Monday evening blues show.  Also big thanks to Vicente Zumel from Barcelona, Spain for his very kind review of the cd and addition to his playlist.  This guy has a GREAT website...check it out at http://es.geocities.com/vzumel.  Thanks also to Terry Iredale/Tecka's Tracks HOT 106.7 FM from Australia.  Offered some very complimentary remarks about the cd and also is scheduling it for airplay.  Finally, check out www.RoyalJam.com for some very nice promotional info on a great number of local blues artists.  Was very pleased to read the nice write-up on the cd.  Check it out...(thanks Mike).  Well after about 12" of snow today, shoveling, then lying around the cabin, I'm ready to jam!

Chas

Wednesday, November 19, 2003

Much thanks to DJ Kruno from VFM Radio (Boom Boom Blues) in Croatia who ended his Sunday evening blues program with three songs from the CD.  Hi to Michiko and Chris from Japan who have received their copy and are planning on giving it some airplay there.  Have also furnished copies to DJ's in Germany, Spain, Australia and Alaska (with many more to be sent).  Stay tuned and I will notify you when they have added it to their playlists.  Found a great Yahoo group which allows me to make contact with blues people all over this big beautiful globe!!  It's truly great how people all over have a real appreciation for this music.  Congrats to all the winners of the LV Music Awards, in particular, all the talented people who participated in my project, including Todd Wolfe, Gary Rissmiller, Mitch Shelly, Dave Ferrara, and of course, Dan McKinney.  You deserve the accolades!

Chas

Thursday, October 30, 2003

( I decided to change the colors)...As of today, the CD is now licensed with BMI...I'm just sitting here waiting for those royalty checks to roll in...(ha)...Congratulations to B.C. and the Blues Crew for having one of their tracks included in the latest cd sampler accompanying the new issue of 'Blues Revue' magazine!!  It's a real thrill to have some Lehigh Valley blues musicians included in such an 'elite' collection!!  Movin' on up!!  Wolfe did a great job last Friday evening at the Bluetone...recorded live by Lakestone Remote Recording Services (Karl Frick).  Looking forward to how that may be released.  Even managed to add some harp at the end...thanks, guys!! Check out http://diggintheblues.ch website - blues band from Zurich, Switzerland.  Yup...the blues is all over the world!!  Gotta go see 'Browntown'...talk to you later...(I like that limerick so much I'm gonna leave it there for another week!)

Chas

Sunday, October 5, 2003

Thanks to Kjell Andreassen in Denmark, we now have contacts in Norway, Germany, Croatia and Slovenia!!  So...stay tuned, we'll let you know how we progress as we spread the word about the CD across Europe.  Am glad to hear that Kjell has received his CD, enjoys it, and is planning on giving some airplay in Denmark.  Thanks a bunch!!

Enjoyed the PBS series on the blues...I have some mixed feelings about the various programs...anybody else feel a little disappointed?  Just one example, was really turned off when Clint Eastwood asked Pinetop Perkins to play 'Pinetop's Boogie', and then they cut away to some other cats...what was that all about?  Give this guy some respect!!  Sorry, I'm just venting.  If you have any comments, let me know!  Talk to you later...

Chas

Monday, August 18, 2003

Whooeee...what a weekend!  Went to the Riverfront Blues Festival in Wilmington, DE.  Despite some rain on Saturday, it was a great event!  A big THANK YOU to Debbie and Will with Misty Morning Productions who graciously played three songs in a row from the CD between sets on Saturday.  (I think it was between Bernard Allison and Lonnie Brooks...but I'm not sure).  Anyway...had the thrill of jammin' with: Elvin Bishop, Lonnie Brooks, Sandra Hall, Lonnie Shields et al at the "after the festival" party at the Wyndham Saturday night!  (Yes the stage WAS a bit crowded!)  Sandra Hall can REALLY belt out the blues!  Sunday was also a blues-packed day...including Little Charlie & The Nightcats, Magic Dick/Jay Geils and winding up with the legenday Otis Rush.  Check this one out next year folks!

Tuesday, July 29, 2003

FLASH!!! Ladies and gents, boys and girls...'twas a beautiful day in the Lehigh Valley, lovely weather, tonight is a new moon, and...today the CD's arrived!!  Yes, they are finished and available for distribution!!  Ok...form a line, don't push, don't shove.  There are plenty to go around.  Those of you who will be receiving a gift copy, please be patient.  I will be mailing them out progressively over the next few weeks.  Those who have purchased will be given priority.  Thanks for your patience!!  Copy #1 was mailed to Jen Bickford of Bangor who placed her order in May.  Musicians that I see will receive their's on-the-spot...  Berne Anderson at "Essentially British" has an alotment, so if you are local, you can head downtown to Easton to make a purchase.  Made a horrifying discovery last night...Venessa Lovell's name is not listed among the musicians on the CD.  I was heart-broken.  She, along with Kassi Furman, did the background vocals on three songs - and a great job at that!  (Her picture appears on the Photos page). I'm truly sorry for the oversight, and if a second batch gets ordered, I will see if I can correct that mistake.  Thanks again for your kind patience.  You can find purchasing info on the BUY CD page.  Talk to you soon!!

Chas