The John Cole Blues Band, one of Rochester's best-loved and well-known
bands, is surely one of Rochester's treasures.
John Cole, the band leader, is originally from Alabama. He is the
primary attraction and the driving force of the band. For many years,
John Cole was a key member of the renowned Joe Beard and The Blues
Union band. He combines a uniquely soulful and moving voice and delivery
with a powerful and imaginitive guitar style to make every song a memorable
experience. No one leaves one of John's sets without having been touched by
his music. Consider that, along with the band's repertoire of all the favorite
blues tunes, as well as more than just a few ballads and R&B classics, and
you know why they almost always close the house with the audience begging for
just one more tune.
John's sidemen never go unnoticed, however. On Bass is Billy Moore,
the newest member, who brings a distinct and solid feel to the music. The
special groove that you hear and feel with this band starts with the
foundation that Billy sets down. A singer and guitarist as well, Billy has
been playing for many years with several of Rochester's best blues bands.
The drummer, John Chaffer, also adds an essential touch to the
band's sound. John is always right there in the pocket, due in no small
part to his many years of experience playing with various Upstate New York
groups such as The Earl Weems Revue, Tom Grills, and Texas Son. There are
no roller coaster rides with this drummer. He is always tasteful, and
holds it down for the good of the groove. Every now and then you might
get to hear him in a solo!
On piano and organ is Gian Carlo Cervone; he has been with John Cole since
the band's second gig. It is very apparent when you see and hear Gian Carlo and
John Cole that they have come to that place where words can go unspoken.
Gian Carlo is considered by many to be the best blues pianist currently on
the scene in Rochester, and his solos are a favorite of the audience. He
has also composed some of the band's instrumental tunes. Gian Carlo is also
the pianist for Jazz Vocalist Janet Beaman.
The John Cole Blues Band plays regularly in many clubs in Rochester and
surrounding areas. Although it is unusual for a band to maintain repeated
engagements in clubs year after year, and to be booked well in advance for
the entire year, that is exactly what this band does regularly. The band
is happy to perform at any private events large or small!
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