Pat Smillie Band - Letter To Hampton (2003)

LETTER TO HAMPTON is the first full-length CD release from the Chicago-based, Pat Smillie Band. The record features 10 new original compositions that blend a variety of American musical styles from blues/r&b to country music. Smillie's top-notch band offers solid musical accompaniment while allowing his husky tenor and solid songwriting to take center stage. This is a great album - full of soulful performances!

If Pat Smillie weren't for real we'd certainly know by now. When he arrived in Chicago more than 10 years ago he was taken under the wing of popular south side guitarist and vocalist Vance Kelly, who mentored him on the scene. As a guest vocalist at the Checkerboard Lounge, Lee's Unleaded Blues, and other clubs. During this periiod, he earned the respect of musicians and blues fans alike - sharing bills and stages with the likes of Koko Taylor, Tyrone Davis, Andre "Mr. Rhythm" Williams, Bobby Rush, and many more.

LETTER TO HAMPTON is the latest release from Pat Smillie, and showcases his husky tenor (which is reminiscent of Joe Cocker or Gregg Allman) alongside a fierce band laying down tight R&B grooves and soulful blues.

Raised in Detroit, Smillie began honing his vocal style while still in high school. Inspired by the Motor City's truly unique rock and soul alchemy, he started out listening to Mitch Ryder, Bob Seger, and The Temptations. He spent his teenage years playing in cover bands on Detroit's southwest side. Always an avid record collector, Smillie soon began collecting the recordings of the various blues and soul masters, and his vocal phrasing and delivery bear out the time he spent studying his heroes.

Pat Smillie's music reminds you of some of your most treasured favorites, without ever crossing the line where influence becomes artifice. LETTER TO HAMPTON is a timeless album built upon solid songwriting and Smillie's soulful vocals.