BURDALAS: News/Journal

Following a terrible (bicycle) accident several months ago while vacationing in Florida, Chris is steadily recovering from his ordeal-playing gigs (although in severe pain) but back in his element. He is awaiting spinal surgery and , although his spirits are up-we all pray for a speedy and complete recovery. Hang in there brother.

Check the calendar for dates and venues. This should prove to be one powerful merge. Playing anything from Joplin to Whitney to Maroon 5 to Cat Stevens. Maria on Vox, Perc & Guitar. El Gato on Keys, Guitar and Vox.

Currently in progress is the transition from bandmates to duo. Basil and Sharon (Concrete Rodeo) are preparing to perform as an acoustic duo throughout the Metro-Detroit area. Their songs will range from Country to Jazz to R&B to Acoustic R&R. Don't be surprised to see Brian there as well.

Detroit's own party band(Soundbyte) is back with new faces and songs. Singer/guitarist Maria Wade and guitarist/vox Chris St. Onge along with alumni Al Towle on drums-Brian Harris on bass and of course (El Gato) on Keys and vox make up the 5-piece ensemble playing many of their fan favorites like [Steely Dan/Joe Cocker/Journey/Led Zeppelin/Motown as well as today's sounds. They're appearing all over the tri-county area...check the calendar, or go to [my space/acoustic stories].

Concrete Rodeo is currently working on their long awaited EP at Taroland Studios in Eastpoint, Mi. The CD will consist of 5 songs inc. Long Way to Fall and Go Easy. Also, will be included is their rising hit "Dixie" (as seen on the CBS Morning show). Stay tuned on the web.Tentative date is Jun 1, 07.

Well boys and girls, although it was a great short run with the Red Ryder band-an incredible evolution took place and thus was born "Concrete Rodeo" comprised of the main 5 members=Sharon Taylor(Lead Vox) Ross Gatzke(Guitars,Vox) Brian Harris(Bass) Al Towle(Drums,Perc) El Gato(Keys,Vox]with the addition of some of the MC's best inc: Duane A.Harlick (guitar & vox), Adam Allen(Banjo & Fiddle) and Bill Schmidt (Pedal Steel,Guitars). Our debut CD is scheduled for release on Jun 1, 07. "This is truly a masterpiece!"

Red Ryder played their 1st club last night at the Memphis Smoke Bar & Grill in Royal Oak, Mi to a largely packed house of appreciative fans. "We gave one of our best shows considering poor sound conditions..and the people showed a lot of respect for us", said El Gato-keyboardist.

My life-long friend Dennis Sharkey and his family are faced with the most heartbreaking tragedy, and every parents worst nightmare. A life-threatening illness. His son Scott has been battling an undiagnosed and debilitating illness on and off for 8 years.Unfortunately, his insurance will not pay for most of the costs and any help would be a blessing. Please, please help and mail your donations to Dennis Sharkey (C/O) Scott 251 S. Franklin Dearborn,MI. 48124

John Zawiskie (Geologist for Cranbrook Science Center)and local tennis legend is currently on site of a massive excavation in Birmingham,Mi. A partial skeletal system of a Mammoth Elephant (including tusks) have been found. "Dealing with this circus media is as close to fame as it gets" says John.Stay tuned for more upcoming details.

I can't tell you how happy I am to finally have my 1st CD available to you-the public, as well as my friends & family. "Burdalas" is the band of my dreams and especially with the addition of EL GATO, who hails from the Motor City.We promise to give you the best in musicianship-songs & concert performances. You will NEVER be able to predict anything about this band.

Hold on cowboys and cowgirls, I'm now part of a high-energy young country band that will blow you away. I took this opportunity (thanx to Brian) when I found out the caliber and professionalism of the members-go to website[redryderband.com]. I'II still be touring with Burdalas and hope to see ya'll at any ,or every show.-El Gato