CRB were ahead of their time. There's no question about it. They began playing together in 1968 after a chance meeting at the local fishin' hole in the small town of Fleeburt, MT. Their 1970 debut album "Chili in the Water", produced a number 1 single and gave the band some very positive press from music and food critics alike. Over the next few years they would continue to produce the bright, yet eerie sounds that would come to define the band's signature "Chili-Rag" sound. Shortly after the release of "Clove Basket" in 1976, their first album to not chart, the band lost lead organ player, Wiley 'Slap' Bugleschmidt to a lengthy battle with gingivitis.
In retrospect, this was clearly the turning point in for band. In the summer of 1977, Crump released his first solo album "3 Bean Salad" to extremely luke-warm reviews. When the band returned to the studio in 1978 to hone their new sound, it was clear that Crump had lost his focus. After spending a summer in the studio with the illustrious producer, Kelp Seebach, Crump had developed a nagging soup habit. This clearly did not mesh with the rest of the band, who's hit singles included, "Takin' Care of Chili", "Chill out Granny", "My Chili is Nothing (without you)" and "Gather 'Round Ye Chili Brother". After the reluctant release of "Progressive Chili Nose", a progressive art-rock blunder, Krenshaw began to spiral out of control with a horrid soup addiction. Hard times were clearly upon the once prominent act. After a few year hiatus, where Crum and Krenshaw were able to sober up in controlled facility, the band regrouped to rekindle the spark. In 1986, a much older and wise CRB released the beautiful "Tears of Chili and Love" to a warm reception. But it was not to be. CRB had grown apart. Some had moved on to penning songs about hoagies or chicken salad. Others just moved on and became family men.
As I'm sure you are aware, Chilitown USA has been suffering from one of the worst chili droughts in 70 years. Dozens have been left hungry and without a trace of chili. Local diners, grocers and water fountains are all running dry with the once prominent resource. The local chili fountain in the town square has now been filled with boring old water. Tourism is at a standstill. Things just couldn't get any worse for Chilitown USA.
When jaw-harp player Thurl Tandy, read an article about the horrific chili drought that recently hit Chilitown USA, he immediately got on the horn and notified his bandmates. "I figured, if there was anyone out there who could help...gosh darnit, it's gotta be the Chili Rivers Band. This is our calling. Chilitown USA needs us now, more than ever." It took some time to reach out to the band he once called his family. Once everyone was reunited in the studio to record a benefit song, it was clear that the magic and passion was back. Not only did CRB record a powerful and moving track simply called "Chilitown USA", but they kept the tape rolling and laid down several more tracks that will be included on an upcoming release. "It's our first album in almost 25 years. It's great to be back with the guys tipping back a few bowls of chili and just letting the music flow though us." Trip Browning told Chili Chat.
Their self titled release will be available on cassette and CD format July, 15.
A benefit show in Chilitown USA will take place on July, 30 in Chilibluff park.
Tickets are available for purchase at www.chili-chat.com or www.chiliriversband.net.
We will also be collecting chili donations through the USPS. Stay tuned for more details.
Cheers,
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