Album Notes

Formed in 1995 as an extension of a 30-year musical relationship between band members Clabe Hangan and Jim Shirey, the critically acclaimed Hangan Brothers are "thusly named because they work as a unit, each supporting each other, coaxing the best blues out of the group as a whole."

Singer-guitarist Clabe Hangan, has been described as "possibly the best unheralded bules singer of this generation." Influenced by Lead Belly and Big Bill Broonzy, he spent the early 60's absorbing everything he could from that generation. Eventually he became a cultural music educator, as well as a solo performer and recording artist.

Multi-instrumentalist(keyboards/violin/guitar)Jim Shirey is a veteran session musician and producer, with the full spectrum of famed artists among his credits.

Harmonica/percussionist/lyricist Rick Smith learned his craft in Greenwich Village in the 60's, relocating to Los Angeles working with Big Joe Williams, Van Dyke Parks, and adding his talent to such movies as the soundtrack for the academy award winning "Days of Heaven."

With the release in 2001 of "Mars Market"(their second CD) they became a seven-piece band, performing their mix of "straight Chicago with swing, classy slow blues, zydeco and jazzy standards."