Do you want to see a performance that will make you get up and dance? And to hear the likes of The Drifters’ “Under the Boardwalk” played right before Pitbull’s “Don’t Stop the Party”? Then this Friday, July 4, at the Harbor View Restaurant Deck, you should check out The Chatterband.
Initially formed in the early ’80s, the band has a lot of musical experience and an outstanding membership that everyone can appreciate. The Chatterband plays music from the ’50s to today’s hits that is upbeat and cheerful, but they also feature the classic ballads that make people dance. “We keep our audience engaged by being real,” explains vocalist and MC Paul Martone. “By that I mean, putting on an honest show that speaks of good feelings. We look directly at the audience and perform to them, not at them.”
The band is made up of Hillary Laine (vocalist) and Ken Rhein (sound engineer, guitarist, and vocalist) who is assisted by his daughter Ashley Rhein, Jeff Raffie (guitar and vocals), Alex Bancer (saxophone, flute, and vocals), Norman Lewis (alto saxophone and drums as well as vocals), Chris Legerrie (percussion and vocals), Deems Palmer (bass guitar and vocals), Jeff “Blondy” Von Stenz (trumpet), Charles Bright (keyboard), and finally Paul Martone (owner, manager, vocalist, and MC).
The Chatterband first made their way to Cape May County through Fred’s Tavern in Stone Harbor. Not long after, they made their debut at other County hotspots including Jack’s Place, the Windrift, Flip Flopz, the Harborview, Kix McNutley’s and more. As far as their favorite place to play, the group decides that by asking themselves, “Was that a great night?” If they collectively feel that it was, they conclude that such a place is one of their favorites in which to play. “It’s all about the people. You have to love the one you’re with,” says Paul. As far as favorite decade of music to perform, the ’80s are at the top of Chatterband’s list due to their great dance hits.
If you would like to see The Chatterband perform this summer, they will be at Kix McNutley’s in Sea Isle City every Thursday, Flip Flopz in North Wildwood every Sunday, The Windrift on July 17th and August 14th, Diamond Beach Club in Diamond Beach on August 1st, Two Mile Restaurant in Wildwood Crest on September 5th, and the Harbor View Restaurant on September 7th. The Band is also available to do weddings and private events throughout the year. For more information, visithttp://www.thechatterband.com/.
By Traci Hofer