Coming to Brick and Mortar Music Hall March 7th! 

Chris James and the Showdowns are excited to return to the stage of one of San Francisco's most exciting Live Music Venues:

 Brick and Mortar Music Hall Thursday March 7th 

We're hoping you can join us as we dust off and revitalize some older Americana Rock Material, toss in a few songs from the new Album and maybe even play a cover tune you might recognize...

 

There are 3 great bands on this bill with us and many of them old friends that we've been trying to to do a show with for some time...finally we found a night and venue with a sweet spot!

Special Guests:

Mavalour  (Rock, Real Rock)
The American Professionals (Pop Rock)
Emmett Peixoto (Singer Songwriter)


Might as well get Advanced Tickets for this baby too, they are ONLY $5 
(will be $8 at the door, so grab em while you can!)

(Doors at 7:30 Show at 8pm)
(Mission @ 14th SF)



Thanks as always for listening, and for supporting live and local music!
See you at the show!


**we also have a Brand New Website up and running now...come by for a visit and grab a free track from the new album at: www.chrisjamesandtheshowdowns.com

CHRIS JAMES AND THE SHOWDOWNS LAUNCH NEW ALBUM: 'LUCKY BREAKS' AT BOTTOM OF THE HILL 

with special guests: Jeff Campbell and The Jeremy Jones Band

Nov. 21st 2012 8:00pm

1233 17th St. San Francisco, CA 94107

$8 Cover / 21 and over

Chris James CD Release Flier

ADVANCE TICKETS: http://www.stubmatic.com/bottomofthehill/event/7332


San Francisco, CA - Respected veteran singer songwriter of the San Francisco music scene Chris James along with his new band The Showdowns, have a reputation for enamoring audiences with rootsy rock n’ roll songs from the heart. The group is also recognized for their energized and compelling live show, which has no shortage of Telecaster twang and swirling B3 organ; recently headlining such San Francisco clubs as Slim’s, The Boom Boom Room, Hotel Utah, Brick and Mortar and others.

This upcoming live performance at Bottom of the Hill will no doubt harness even more energy and excitement than usual as the band can finally, after a year of hard work with some of the Bay Area’s finest engineers and producers at Faultline Studios, Coast Recorders, and Hyde St. Studios, celebrate the launch of their new CD: Lucky Breaks

Start to finish this is a vibrant record of exceptionally well-crafted, memorable songs and is a true “Road Trip” CD that captures the spirit of Roots Rock Americana music. The album is fresh, yet familiar and showcases songwriting ranging from lively and inspired rock n’ roll numbers to endearing, emotional ballads. Compelling vocals and lyrics tell a story while the band’s energy and soaring lead guitar work take you on a musical ride…fans of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, The Wall Flowers, and Ryan Adams, will no doubt find something they like on this new release.

-Tour dates, video shoots, and music licensing projects are planned for the near future, and they are excited to work closely with the newly founded: Bay Area Music Collective.

 "Chris James' style of writing is hard to deny as it rings of times and life situations we can all relate to. It's nice to see an artist and band hold true to Americana roots while still giving you a rock and roll kick in the ass!"    -Starita (Music Producer, Grammy Awards Board Member)

"Chris James is a terrific singer-songwriter with a real honest approach and style. Reminds me a little of Springsteen…its only a matter of time before he gets ‘signed’..."     - J. Bowman (Lead Guitarist, Michael Franti & Spearhead)

CD Cover Chris James Lucky Breaks


 

Music fans can preview or pre-order the new album at:

http://www.chrisjames.bandcamp.com

 

 

 

• SPECIAL GUESTS for the CD release event include:

JEFF CAMPBELL

http://www.jeffcampbellmusic.com/

Jeff Campbell is a natural, and any lover of music can see that when performing, he is doing what he was born to do.

This young singer-songwriter was brought up in a musical family with constant exposure to artists and performers from the last six decades. These artists have influenced a songwriting style, a mix of raw rock and winding lyrical melodies, which continues to evolve within him through the years. Touring and performing through countless venues on both coasts and in the San Francisco Bay Area as a KFOG Local Scene Artist, Campbell put his nose to the grindstone and has built a fast and steady reputation and faithful following.

-"Stripped down to bare essentials and leaving nothing for Jeff to hide behind, his talent is exposed. His voice is gentle and smooth but commands attention as well, the lyrics honest and real. Brilliantly written and delivered even better, takes me to the meat of a moment, and I loved being allowed in..."-Relate Magazine


JEREMY JONES BAND http://www.jeremyjonesband.com/

Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana, Jeremy Jones has music in his blood. Though inspired by the rich musical tradition of his homeland, his musical influences span around the world. He has traveled far and wide studying and absorbing the music of other cultures.

His debut album, From Here On, is a direct product of his innermost thoughts and experiences as a musician, writer, world traveler, teacher, student and human being. From the spontaneous conception of the first song in the highest reaches of the Himalayas on the Indian-Tibetan border, to waking up in a San Francisco apartment a year later to compose a song he heard in his dreams, the music and lyrics of this album have been meticulously thought out to take listeners on a journey into the deeper and more profound aspects of themselves.


Additional Biographical info for Chris James:

Singer songwriter Chris James has devoted most of his life to writing and performing music. Growing up in the outskirts of Portland Maine, James made a name for himself early by being a regular performer at parties, coffee houses and campfire sessions in the area; drawing from influences such as Springsteen, Paul Simon, Dylan, Johnny Cash and Jim Croche.

Looking to find his own voice, James eventually landed in San Francisco, CA. There he became a working musician and cut his teeth as a performer and recording artist on a professional level, playing legendary SF clubs such as Slim’s, Bottom Of The Hill, Boom Boom Room and Hotel Utah and having his material featured on radio stations such as 107.7 The Bone, SIRIUS XM, 91.1 KMUD, 90.1 FM, and KGO 810 AM, as well seeing his music placed in commercials and on cable networks such as CNN. Recently he has been spent much of his time back and forth between the Bay Area and New England where he is highly engaged in the music scene with his new band: Chris James And The Showdowns. They carry a reputation for delivering an energized live show, with real and emotional songs that just seem to “stick in your head.”

James has performed hundreds of shows on both coasts and has had the pleasure of sharing the stage, and/or the recording studio with many notable artists including members of Michael Franti and Spearhead, Tesla, Starship, Marion Grace, Jeff Campbell, RA RA Riot and Under to name a few.

 

CONTACT: Chris James 

info@chrisjamessongs.com

415-533-9183

facebook.com/chrisjamesfanpage­


######

Twas a great year of Rock n Roll for us...thank you! 

Hey everyone, Chris James here...Just wanted to reach out today and wish you a Happy Holidays and to thank you all for making 2012 an amazing year for our music!

Over the past 12 months the band and I have done some pretty awesome stuff, here's a quick overview:
  • Played a ton of shows all over the SF Bay Area to growing crowds at some big venues like Slim's, Brick and Mortar and Bottom of the Hill
  • Finished a full length -professionally recorded studio album and had a great CD release party!
  • Enjoyed one of the most successful Patiopalooza Rock n Roll BBQ's ever over the summer
  • Made a pretty sweet little music video
  • Got the song from that video played on 107.7 the Bone and some internet radio stations as well!
So we can't complain, not bad for a few Do It Yourself Rock N' Rollers!
Best of all, were just getting started and already have a LOT OF EXCITING shows and other stuff developing for well into next year!
But...we couldn't make it happen without you: Our friends, family and fans. Thanks for your continued support and we hope to see you at an upcoming CJS 2013 show!

Chris James and the Showdowns Lucky Breaks Album Cover

PLEASE enjoy and pop into your IPOD a
FREE DOWNLOAD from the new CD...one of my favorites: Living on Faith

You can also RE: this message to give me a personal holiday shout-out, or hit the band up on our WEBSITE or Facebook as well...
Happy Holidays All! Be safe out there, and we'll see you soon!

Sonoma Songwriters in the Round This Thurs night! 

CHRIS JAMES, STEVE KRITZER & ASH THURSDAY HEADLINE SONGWRITERS IN SONOMA AT COMMUNITY CAFE

SONOMA, CA.—Three very distinct and unique singer-songwriters take the stage on Thursday, August 16th for the third performance of the Meadowcroft Wines (www.meadowcroftwines.com) popular music series Songwriters in Sonoma at Community Café, 875 West Napa Street in Sonoma. Chris James, Steve Kritzer and Ash Thursday will be performing their original songs. Doors open at 6 p.m. and show time is at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 per person and available by calling the Meadowcroft tasting room at 707/934-4090. Community Café (www.ccsonoma.com) will provide a special menu accompanied by an extensive menu of Meadowcroft and Thomas Henry wines. Reservations for the August show are
highly recommended.

“The Songwriters in Sonoma series has been incredibly successful at our summer home in the Community Café,” said Mike Hyland, producer of Songwriters in Sonoma. “It’s a great location with excellent food, excellent wine and, of course, great original music by three outstanding performers.”

The monthly music series is produced by Meadowcroft Wines and sponsored by the Sonoma-based website, MusicNomad.com (www.musicnomad.com). The shows are booked and hosted by Gerard Serafini, owner of Sonoma Valley Music Store (www.sonomavalleymusic.com), who also provides the professional sound and lighting for the shows.

Singer-songwriter Chris James has been writing and performing music for most of his life. Growing up outside of Portland, Maine, Chris made a name for himself drawing on influences such as Johnny Cash, Tom Petty, Bruce Springsteen and Paul Simon. He moved to San Francisco, formed a band, and spent many years traveling between both coasts. He recently put together a new band, Chris James and the Showdowns, who are currently working on a full length CD due out this fall.

Steve Kritzer is an award winning South Bay singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, studio musician, teacher and human jukebox. Steve is a main stage regular at the Fiddlers Green Festival in Ireland, the Bluebird Café in Nashville, the Kerrville Folk Festival in Texas and all points in between. He has recorded four popular CD’s and is currently working on his fifth release.

Singer-songwriter Ash Thursday has been writing and performing music for 15 years. Her writing is a combination of rock with pop sensibilities coupled with abundant hooks and harmony. She has fronted several noted North Bay bands including Escape Engine, No More Stereo and Kindness and Lies, and has performed in many of the area’s top venues including the Great American Music Hall, Bottom of the Hill, Café Du Nord, Slim’s and Yoshi’s.

Meadowcroft Wines (www.meadowcroftwines.com) includes the Meadowcroft, Thomas Henry, and Foyt Family labels. The tasting room is located within the Cornerstone Sonoma (www.cornerstonesonoma.com) complex that features 24 world class gardens, art galleries and cutting edge design shops all set among acres of vineyards. The tasting room is open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The venue is available for private parties, private tastings, wine dinners and other events. With plenty of free parking at Cornerstone Sonoma, the area is a perfect setting for any type of event, both indoors or outdoors. For information or to make reservations, please call 707-934-4090.

Community Café (www.ccsonma.com) offers home-style wine country cuisine, featuring fresh and delicious breakfast and lunch dishes in a warm and welcoming community
atmosphere. Community Café uses only quality ingredients, organics where possible, and support many local farms and producers. In addition, Community Café hosts monthly wine dinners and specializes in creating and hosting casual, private events for up to 80 guests. They provide in-house catering for rehearsal dinners, special birthday or anniversary occasions, providing a customized food menu that includes a wide range of local wines, with additional space for live music and/or dancing. Please call 707/938-7779 for additional information.

MusicNomad.com
(www.musicnomad.com) is where musicians go to find a home. Music Nomad is a musician’s advocate organization that strives to help make sense of the vast and fragmented music industry by researching, interviewing, reviewing and ranking thousands of companies within the music industry and filtering the ones that can truly be of help to musicians. MusicNomad.com is a free service and focuses on fighting for the independent musician.

Sonoma Valley Music (www.sonomavalleymusic.com) is Sonoma’s retail music store providing instruments, service, rentals, repairs and music lessons. They also have support equipment such as sound systems and PA gear for shows and events.

Flash Bang Boom at Slim's this Friday Aug. 3rd 8pm 

First off, thank you to everyone who came out to make this years Patiopalooza at El Rio a smashing success!...

We invite you to join us again, this time for FLASH BANG BOOM (a showcase of Performance, Music and Technology) at Slim's in San Francisco this Friday Night!

Flash Bang Boom Poster

This ALL AGES show is turning out to be a big one, with an eclectic mix of awesome local talent scheduled to perform!

FlashBangBoom –Integrating Lindsey Boullt’s Musician Showcase w/ Ginger Murray’s Beesknees Production Co.

Showcasing – SF/Bay area rising artists in music/art performance/technology/underground. Continuous performances. It will be a wild night of explosions, wild performances, creative expressions and glimpses of a profound future. It will be a night that will change how you see the world.

Non-stop performances include: Slims Presents
- 8 Bands, 20 minute sets; genres include Americana, Blues, Grunge, Latin Funk Rock, Old-timey, Hard Rock- At 10 minute interludes, ‘avant-garde’
art performers showcase on the Slim’s floor- Interactive technology performances engaging audience members throughout the evening- MC’d by Ginger Murray- Televised on JazzCult TV, SF Bay area

ALL AGES SHOW! 7:30 DOORS / 8:00 SHOWTIME $20
333 11th St. @ Folsom SF


PURCHASE ADVANCE TICKETS HERE


Thanks as always for listening, see you at the show!

www.chrisjamesandtheshowdowns.com

The 7th annual Patiopalooza! 

THE 7th ANNUAL PATIOPALOOZA! at El Rio

JULY 21st 3-8pm 21 and Over $8 Admission (includes FREE BBQ)
El Rio 3158 Mission St. @ Cesear Chavez San Francisco CA

What began as a birthday party 7 years ago has now turned into an annual summer Rock N Roll and BBQ tradition on the back patio stage of El Rio, one of San Francisco's most enduring and belovedly raucous outdoor music venues. The event, spearheaded by local singer songwriter Chris James, brings together local musical talent ranging from Alternative to Blues to Country Rock and usually sees an attendance of over 200 ready to let their hair down and dust the boots off San Francisicans...
The spirits are high, the front row gets booty shakin' and with a free outdoor BBQ thrown in its about the best time your gonna get in the city without feelin' like your in the city on a Saturday afternoon...and all for a mere $8.
Not to mention that the Patiopalooza always features 3 to 4 of the Bay Area's premier live rock n' roll acts...

This year's line up of bands includes:

BURN RIVER BURN

BURNriverBURN is a five-piece with a sound unique within the hard rock genre (a sort of southern fried sabbath, if you will). The name BURNriverBURN, coined by the lead guitarist, is a reference to his hometown of Cleveland, Ohio and it's infamous burning river the "Cuyahoga"...
"Well written hard rock songs with an extremely talented vocalist backed up by thick tones and grooves pretty much sum up BURNriverBURN. So does their motto: If your amps aren't taller than you, then you must be doing something wrong...."


CHRIS JAMES & THE SHOWDOWNS


Chris James and The Showdowns are a band that has a reputation for "keeping it real" and delivering unbridled original Roots-Rock-Americana songs that will have you wondering where the hell you'd heard em before...The band is equally comfortable performing heart felt ballads along side telecaster twang driven southern rock making
their live shows energetic, emotional and hallmark memorable.

"Chris James' style of writing is hard to deny as it rings of times and life situations we can all relate to. It's nice to see an artist and band hold true to Americana roots while still
giving you a rock and roll kick in the ass!"


FINDING STELLA


Passionate rock! The sound of Finding Stella is led by the power and emotion of lead vocalist Chris Snyder, backed by lush harmonies and a rich variety of electric/acoustic guitars, keyboard/string sounds, all supported by a driving rhythm section. Snyder along with Victoria Ovieda, Tim Christmon, Rich Flynn, and Dave Scott incorporate many divergent influences and styles into their music, smoothly jumping from classic rock to power-pop to tender ballads - all while creating a rich rock sound. Their first album "Twitch," sold out very quickly...


MISSION BLACKOUT


"Soulful Rock n' Roll with a gritty alternative edge..."

contact info:
Chris James (organizer)
chrisjamessongs@gmail.com
415-533-9183

related websites:
www.chrisjamesandtheshowdowns.com/live_shows
www.elriosf.com
www.facebook.com/chrisjamesfanpage
Patiopalooza

Back at the Hotel Utah this Thurs! 

Hey there! Sorry it's been a minute...but we've been real busy in the studio lately recording our new album, which, as many of you have been wondering is coming along great!

We're at the mixing stage now and should have a single and video for you to check out in a few weeks!...

For now though...we're very excited to come back to the Hotel Utah (500 4th St. @ Bryant SF) next Thurs and perform live for y'all!

Hotel Utah April 26th

COME OUT FOR A GREAT LINE UP OF LOCAL ARTISTS including Valerie Orth and Kingsway 202

Thanks as always for listening...see you at the show!

UPCOMING DATES:


    WED MAY 30th 7pm - Brick and Mortar Music Hall
    SAT JULY 21st 4pm - El Rio The PATIOPALOOZA!

Leap Year Show at the Boom Boom Room 

Hey there! We're excited to announce a special hour an half live performance this Wed night FEB 29th at the legendary Boom Boom Room 1601 Filmore St San Francisco (kicks off at 9pm)

Boom Boom Room Marquis

We'll be opening for the band OOH!
described as: Cybernetic-Music that goes good with copulation, dancing, driving, smoking, drinking and eating, etc. Not necessarily in that order

Leap Year Party
A LEAP YEAR PARTY TO RIVAL ALL OTHERS! PURCHASE ADVANCE TICKETS $5


In other news:

The band and I are still hard at work in the studio and we should have a FREE Single from the upcoming album for you to check out in the next few weeks! Keep an ear for that one...
...and our Producer, Starita had some kind words for us we thought we'd share:
"Chris James' honest and approachable style of writing is hard to deny as it rings of times and life situations we can all relate to. It's nice to see an artist and band hold true to americana roots while still giving you a rock and roll kick in the ass!"

Thanks for that! and Thank You as always for listening...see you at the show!

www.chrisjamesandtheromeos.com

Last show of the year at Grant and Green! 

THURSDAY DEC 1st. 9pm, Chris James and the Romeos will take the stage at the historic Grant and Green Saloon!

Grant and Green Saloon

With special guests, another of the city's finest Americana Rock Bands

THE MIDWAY DELTA

The Drinks will be flowin' and the dance floor will hoppin'...

Admission if Free, Hope you can make it out!

1st Live show of the year! 

Happy New Year! We're excited about 2012 and what better way to kick it off than with a San Francisco Rock n Roll show!


Brick and Mortar

Purchase advaced tix here: TICKETFLY

(we go on at 10pm but get there early and check out the other bands)

If you're unfamiliar with Brick and Mortar it is the old CODA, former LaVende Lounge...they have re-vamped it into a great place to hang and see live music


Should be an awesome night...HOPE YOU CAN ALL MAKE IT OUT!