Genre: Blues | Blues Rock | Classic Rock | Funk | Soul | Groove | Folk

Chris Raabe, front man of The Chris Raabe Band was born September 9, 1987 in Suffern, NY. Chris’s life would be forever changed on Christmas 2003, when his parents bought him a starter guitar and amp: a gift that would soon become something much more. At that time, however, his tunnel vision-like tendencies had him engulfed in sports, basketball, baseball and skateboarding.. As a result, he didn’t get around to picking that guitar up until about a year later – at age 17. However, once he did pick it up, he didn’t put it down. He had found his new obsession, and it was not to be short lived.

One of his main influences in the beginning, and still to this day, is Angus Young of AC/DC, a classic rock band that started out on the bluesier side of rock. Over the following years, Chris was in several bands playing everything from heavy metal to rock and many styles in between. As he matured, so did his taste in music. He was now drawing inspiration from blues greats such as Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton & Stevie Ray Vaughn. Since Chris started playing, he has continued to pursue his great passion as a musician and a writer.

Four years later, Chris set out to satisfy his urge to explore California and experience what it’d be like to live in LA. There was a music school that caught his interest, so with some pocket change and a guitar, off he went. One of the many happenings during his stay was an invitation to a private jam where he got the chance to play with The Frank Zappa Band. Though Cali was a great experience, he soon realized he wanted to be back home in NY.

Chris has been part of the Hudson valley music scene in NY for several years now. He has had the privilege of jamming with blues legends like Bill Perry, Popa Chubby, Slam Allen as well as long time friend – local country upcoming artist, Jason Casterlin & his band “The Tall Boys.” In Jan 2013, Chris had the honor of opening up for the famous Chicago Blues player, Nick Moss, who was on his national tour.

Chris Raabe also had the pleasure of warming the stage for the great Leon Russell at the Towne Crier in Beacon.

This genre that Chris loves is one you have to feel, it can’t be taught. It’s poured out through real, raw emotion. To play the blues is something usually acquired over many, many years – and with much experience. But, if you ever have the chance to hear Chris play, even when he was at the young age of 24, you’ll know he’s that rare exception – NATURAL GRAY HAIR AND ALL!! Music defines who he is, and it’s alive in his heart.

If you love that good ol’ music, then you will really love what Chris brings to the stage with his own unique flair. Some may say it’s a lost cause trying to make blues relevant with the younger crowd; that older music falls upon deaf ears; that it only appeals to more seasoned crowd. The stronger belief is that this genre will live on because of, and through our youth; that they will ultimately search for something more than what is played over and over (and over…) on the radio. What is most rewarding to Chris is getting through to the ones who appreciate the music for what it is – and for the emotion it evokes.

Chris and the band are currently in the studio working on a all original album. They are looking forward to sharing it with the world early 2016.

THE BAND

Eric Winter on the electric bass as well as the upright . Eric is and has been one of the areas most solid all around musicians. He has cut his teeth on tour with The Bill Perry Band and Murali Coryell as well as Blues Great Slam Allen. His pocket is so deep you could fit a cat in there.

Samuel Goldstien on the drums. Samuel , like his father is an exceptionally talented musician, one that can feel where a song is gonna go. He always seems to know exactly what a song needs and only plays whats necessary. That being said he is a beast in a cage just waiting to be unleashed!

Micheal Purcell on the Keys. Mike was a later addition to the band but a very welcome one. Mike is revered as one the hudson valleys great Jazz musicians. He also brings a tremendous amount of soul to the table.

Andrew Garrison on the Saxophone. Andrew is a young gun but has the soul and note choices of someone who has been playing all his life. He brings a sense of sophistication to the band while rounding out the groove.

As a unit CRB is a electric, soulful and tasty free fall of expression.

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