3rd Degree
Los Angeles, California, United States | INDIE
Music
Press
The band hitting the stage does not disappoint . " 3rd Degree roars on stage like a locomotive steaming down the tracks " The enchanting sounds of a harmonica driving some thick blues from the Northside , straight into the southside of O.C. . Naw man , 3rd Degree is serving up some serious blues . Songs of torn up hearts and hallow souls dripping thick trails of broken sorrow . Thus the set of this mightily fine Blues band fronted by a charming Chicago Bluesman named Aaron " Big Hands " Chapman " . He leads an assemblage of talented musicians serious about the craft . 3rd Degree's set was a fine tribute to the to the famous sounds whirling around good old Chicago . - Live Magazine , Jan 2002 ,Victor
" Don't miss a chance to see The 3rd Degree perform as they deliver the best in Chicago style Blues " Southland Blues - Southland Blues , Oct 2002
Singer/guitarist Aaron Chapman interprets Willie Dixon's classic anthem with inspired passion and superb accompaniment .
The title track "Bluesman" maintains the band's slow burn attitude, with lyrics about the trials and tribulations of this particular career choice .
" Here's a local band that should be making headlines all across the nation "
Jim Santella , Southland Blues Mag. - Southland Blues , Jan 2004
Discography
Bluesman
3rd Degree live at B.B. Kings
Photos
Bio
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Aaron "Big Hands" Chapman-bandleader , Chicago's own , guitarist and vocalist cut his teeth early on the SouthSide of Chicago . Growing up in Cabrini Green and Robert Taylor homes two of the toughest housing projects was his first lesson of the Blues . Drawing influences from Pops Staples , Albert King and Curtis Mayfield to name a few . Befriended by the late great Godfather of the Blues , Junior Wells , was an honor !
Melvin "Sunset Slim" Mitchell is a riveting pressence on harmonica. He hails from Cleveland, Ohio, but his wide exposure to the Chicago Blues sceene becomes evident in his performances. Slim cites Chicago greats like Billy Branch and Sugar Blues as having the biggest impact on his career.
Leo "Thunder" Hopkins
Harrison " Hatch" Manell grew up with the piano in the home, his mother Adelle received in 1931. Hatch fooled around with the keys until he learned some basic chords. He found a couple of friends that played guitars and soon was playing local parties and school dances. Through high school and beyond, he played in several local blues - rock groups at local clubs. His musical influences include Brian Auger, Savoy Brown, Santana, Clapton, Keith Ernerson, and the Jazz Crusaders to name a few. Family life took over, but once the kids grew up "Hatch" was back on the scene with renewed enthusiasm.
Dayvd Johnson
Bobby "Too Big" Albright is the newest member of the band as drummer and percussionist. Bobby has studied under the tutelage of great musicians like Joe Pacaro and Louis Conte. He holds down the beat in perfect segue from one song to the next and enjoys playing in a band that allows him to stretch out.
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