Album Notes

The Porch Rockers

Two artists often follow parallel trajectories. For years, Tim Gartland and Joe Giardella plied their musical trades in similar circles, playing many of the same clubs, working with some of the same sidemen. Then a mutual friend brought them together. During their first jam session in 1997, both musicians shared their love of blues, country and roots music.

They founded The Porch Rockers, to create original music in the tradition of their mutual heroes; Muddy Waters, Hank Williams, B.B King, Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan and Eric Clapton.

Singer-Harp player Tim Gartland was born in Ohio, and lived and performed in Chicago and Kansas City before settling in Boston in 1989. Guitarist Joe Giardella, Bassist Dirk van Gulden and Drummer Wilson Brown are from the Greater Boston area.

In 1999 they released their debut self-titled CD. The band set out to capture the stripped down, live vibe of their club performances. The response to "The Porch Rockers" was excellent.

Jay Miller, Music Scene reporter for the Patriot Ledger wrote that "their music speaks with simple eloquence...their songs contain superbly swinging rhythms and lyrics that tell stories with wide resonance".

The success of their debut CD launched the Porch Rockers into the premier New England Night Club circuit featuring American Roots and Blues music. "The Porch Rockers" CD is now in its' second printing and still selling well.

In 2002 the band began the process of carefully writing, arranging and recording their latest release, Heard the News. These songs paint a more diverse musical landscape: From blues to country; roots to gospel.

The Porch Rockers and Co-Producer Chris Rival committed exceptional performances to tape, with spirited arrangements that convey the essence of each song. Heard the News is enhanced by guest artists Ian Kennedy on fiddle, Erica Rodney on vocals (Fatwall Jack), Ted Armstrong on Keyboards and Tom West (former Susan Tedsechi Band Keyboardist)