Albums by The Colorblind James Experience
Artist Biography
From Rochester, New York, USA, this eccentric outfit was led by the evidently talented but somewhat unhinged Colorblind James (b. Chuck Cuminale, 1952, Oswego, New York, USA, d. 10 July 2001, USA; vocals, vibraphone, guitar), with Phillip Marshall (lead guitar, vocals), Bernie Heveron (bass, vocals) and Jim McAvaney (drums). Together they utilized the myriad forms of North American musical expression open to them, from country, cocktail-lounge jazz, folk, rockabilly and blues to goodtime rock ‘n’ roll, in order to express James’ oddball view of the world. It was BBC disc jockey John Peel who first gave them the exposure necessary to make them realize they were producing something that an audience might also appreciate. Their 1987 debut album was an eclectic work, notable for its engaging black humour. The high point of the collection, the sprawling ‘I’m Considering A Move To Memphis’, was reminiscent of David Byrne’s less self-conscious efforts. By the time of the release of their second album, Why Should I Stand Up?, the line-up had increased to a sextet with the addition of John Ebert (trombone, tuba, vocals), Ken Frank (bass, violin, vocals - replacing Heveron) and Dave McIntire (saxophone, clarinet, vocals). In 1990, the group put aside their electric instruments, thereby standing revealed as Colorblind James And The Death Valley Boys, and indulging in more basic country blues, gospel and jug band music. The result of these sessions was Strange Sounds From The Basement, which continued Colorblind’s infatuation with the underside of contemporary American life. He really did move to Memphis in the 90s, although his attempts to break into the local songwriting community were unsuccessful. He returned to New York state and continued to release records with the Colorblind James Experience, before succumbing to a heart attack in his swimming pool in July 2001.
Hometown
San Francisco, CA, United States
Genre
Singer/Songwriter
