Chuck Schaeffer & Full Moon Howlin'

Date: Feb 4 2012
Even though Chuck Schaeffer is a perfectly capable musician and singer, it wasn't his performing that stood out to us. Rather, his songwriting is what sets him apart from many other country musicians. Each song tells its own story, ranging from traditional love stories to a clever chronicle about Dale Earnhardt and his son. The songs tend to follow tried and true country forms, with clear verses and catchy choruses. He also blends the up-tempo rockabilly style pieces with slower ballads, creating a wide variety of styles that will appeal to a diverse crowd of listeners.
In this time of digital piracy and declining record sales, Chuck Schaeffer may be an example of the new musician. With live shows being the only truly profitable musical venture, more and more musicians are going back to performing their own songs. Although the music industry has been tough on songwriters, publishers, and record labels, it seems that a new breed of singer/songwriters are emerging. By taking both the performance and the songwriting roles, Schaeffer is building a name for himself at local venues and radio stations. Listen to his music at ChuckSchaeffer.com, or check out the previews below. - The Country Reviewer - by Matt Hundley

Date: Feb 4 2012
Even though Chuck Schaeffer is a perfectly capable musician and singer, it wasn't his performing that stood out to us. Rather, his songwriting is what sets him apart from many other country musicians. Each song tells its own story, ranging from traditional love stories to a clever chronicle about Dale Earnhardt and his son. The songs tend to follow tried and true country forms, with clear verses and catchy choruses. He also blends the up-tempo rockabilly style pieces with slower ballads, creating a wide variety of styles that will appeal to a diverse crowd of listeners.
In this time of digital piracy and declining record sales, Chuck Schaeffer may be an example of the new musician. With live shows being the only truly profitable musical venture, more and more musicians are going back to performing their own songs. Although the music industry has been tough on songwriters, publishers, and record labels, it seems that a new breed of singer/songwriters are emerging. By taking both the performance and the songwriting roles, Schaeffer is building a name for himself at local venues and radio stations. Listen to his music at ChuckSchaeffer.com, or check out the previews below. - The Country Reviewer - by Matt Hundley

By DANNY COLEMAN
For The Trentonian

Welcome to my musical world! This is one man's attempt to alert you to the best in area entertainment!

Over the course of the last week I witnessed several things in music that I feel are worth mentioning.

Kicking things off was the CD release party for Yardley, Pa. resident and country rock artist Chuck Schaeffer's latest effort "Along These Lines." All that I can say is, simply put, wow! The event held at The Hamilton Manor in Yardville was, according to Schaeffer, an "outstanding night of entertainment" featuring performers from all over our area and beyond. Jackson artist and Jersey shore area performer Michael Patrick and members of his "Suburban Hillbillies" band opened the evening with an "old school" style country set of original tunes. Patrick (whose resemblance to Johnny Cash is only exceeded by his vocal style) got the crowd ready to go with his well done lyrics and humorous anecdotes.

Next up was an amazing songwriters circle featuring Trenton native Christian Roebling, Atlantic City area singer/songwriters Matthew "Billy" Williams a.k.a. "The Williamsboy" and the amazingly talented Patty Blee; whose warming smile, down to earth style and captivating vocal ability won the hearts of many in attendance. Closing out the circle was Glen Mills, Pa. performer and very talented songwriter/guitarist Craig Bickhardt. Craig, who has had his music recorded by Ray Charles, B.B. King, Johnny Cash, The Judds and Alison Krauss, was as smooth as silk and a true professional; "It was an honor to sing with him and have him be part of the evening," said Schaeffer.

After the circle ended, Schaeffer took to the stage with guitarist Jim Carolan and the duo performed several acoustic selections from "Along These Lines." Schaeffer then called the "Chuck Schaeffer Band" to the stage consisting of Vern Warta, Mike Carr, Jim Thompson, John Farrell and Joe Dilonardo, along with backing vocalists Emily Rose and Kris Ballerini, for a rollicking set of rock and blues infused country tunes with a few select standards thrown in to boot. Simply put, they rocked the house in a fantastic fashion that left the onlookers asking for more. "I think we did it right," said Chuck. " I hope that everyone got a little something out of it; I was truly humbled that everyone was there for me."

In closing, Schaeffer told me, "I was proud to be able to put together a venue to showcase so many talented musicians." I understand why he made that statement, as it was a show well worth the price of admission.

To obtain a copy of "Along These Lines" please go to www.chuckschaeffer.com , www.reverbnation.com, CD Baby as well many major online retailers. - Trentonian.com

Review by Mike McKenna - PA Music Scene.com - January 2011

Chuck Schaeffer has nailed it on the head. With the combination of the traditional and Country-Rock, Chuck has succeeded in putting together an awesome collection of tunes that I can only describe as from the heart. His prowess with his lyrics and the stories they tell will satisfy the most discerning country listener. His style can be compared to a Montgomery Clift, Early Garth Brooks, Toby Keith or a George Strait.

“Big Ole Buick” is a catchy tune that I really like. This really takes me back to the good old days when country music was real. It reminds me of some of my old cars. “Secret Admiration” is a toe-tapping, line dancing number that has energy and a good time feel to it. Sort of reminds me of a classic Dr Hook number. “Three Years Ago” is the type of song I remember listening to before the big country radio revival. This is down home country at its best.

“Class of 32” tells a great story that is comparable to the great Harry Chapin and his style of storytelling. “Filler Up” has a nice Tim McGraw feel to it. I really like the tale behind this tune. “My Baseball Videos” is probably one of the best on this CD, awesome number, nice hook, catchy chorus and lyrics. Shades of John Prine! - pamusicscene.com

Review by Mike McKenna - PA Music Scene.com - January 2011

Chuck Schaeffer has nailed it on the head. With the combination of the traditional and Country-Rock, Chuck has succeeded in putting together an awesome collection of tunes that I can only describe as from the heart. His prowess with his lyrics and the stories they tell will satisfy the most discerning country listener. His style can be compared to a Montgomery Clift, Early Garth Brooks, Toby Keith or a George Strait.

“Big Ole Buick” is a catchy tune that I really like. This really takes me back to the good old days when country music was real. It reminds me of some of my old cars. “Secret Admiration” is a toe-tapping, line dancing number that has energy and a good time feel to it. Sort of reminds me of a classic Dr Hook number. “Three Years Ago” is the type of song I remember listening to before the big country radio revival. This is down home country at its best.

“Class of 32” tells a great story that is comparable to the great Harry Chapin and his style of storytelling. “Filler Up” has a nice Tim McGraw feel to it. I really like the tale behind this tune. “My Baseball Videos” is probably one of the best on this CD, awesome number, nice hook, catchy chorus and lyrics. Shades of John Prine! - pamusicscene.com

- 'This boy certainly has the country-folk-roots music bug in a big way! And a good thing too, because Chuck has got the chops --- his energy, heart, and soul are poured into a crafting of lyrics that are clever and surprising, and delivered in a comfy down-home fashion. A great example of how talent and drive is what our music is all about.' - Guitar Town, WDVR 89.7 FM

'...a real pro and an engaging performer' - Princeton Local TV-30

'...a real pro and an engaging performer' - Princeton Local TV-30