Chaz De Paolo is from Kearny, New Jersey where he learned his craft. He plays traditional styled blues but puts his own stamp on whatever he does. Chaz recently released his third album, this one on 95 North Records.

Chaz opens this fine album with "Don't You Lie To Me" written by Hudson Whittaker, better known as Tampa Red. His guitar work and vocal are notable on this rockin' version. The next track is "Stevie's Favorite Shuffle" and from the liner notes, Chaz was influenced here by Stevie Ray Vaughan, but I think the track has more of a Canned Heat boogie feel. Harry Fritz's harmonica is especially nice. This is the first of two fine original instrumentals.

"Sunday Mornin' Blues" is an original song and the albums best performance. Chaz's guitar and vocals are complimented this time by Dave Lewis on the Hammond B-3. Other Highlights include Peter Green's (Fleetwood Mac) "Long Grey Mare", John Lee Hooker's "Stormin'", Willie Dixon's "Let Me Love You Baby", and "Checkin' On My Baby", which although Public Domain, I first heard by Junior Wells.

Other songs written by Chaz DePaolo include the Piedmont styled "Flirtin' With The Blues", "I Only Need A Little", "Big Blues Star" and the other Jimmy Reed styled instrumental "Chicago 101". Besides Dave Lewis and Harry Fritz, supporting musicians include the fine rhythm section of Bruce Gatewood, bass and Mike Fumento, drums. Chaz De Paolo recently appeared at BB Kings Blues Club in New York City as part of a birthday tribute to Jimi Hendrix. Visit his website and give him a listen at www.chazdepaolo.com

Richard Ludmerer
Director, The New York Blues & Jazz Society
ricdale2@yahoo.com