Reconciled Record’s, a newly formed label in Pittsburgh PA, is proud to announce its debut release. Wayne and Wildroot “One Hell of a Ride” produced by Buddy Hall at Beacon Hill Recording Studio and will be released this spring. Featuring Atlantic Records soul crooner Bobby Wayne and slide guitarist Jimmy “Wildroot” Dolan this disc smokes and smolders through 11 original songs penned by Pittsburgh blues songsmith James Dougherty.

Singer Chizmo Charles made his recording debut as a leader on this CD, at the age of 70. What is more remarkable than his very late start is that Charles’ voice could pass for 50. His versatility and the pure joy in his singing are quite appealing. Although largely a blues date, Charles also performs “Angel Eyes” quite credibly and the music ranges from swing to soul. The highlights include “Bed Bug Boogie,” Elmore James’ “Shake Your Moneymaker,” “The Walkin’ Blues,” and “Bad Bad Whiskey.” With fine support given by the four-piece Midnight Horns (which includes Kenny Blake on alto and tenor), a solid rhythm section, slide guitarist James Dougherty, Jr. (who wrote half of the tunes), and James King on harmonica, the singer is heard throughout in near-exuberant form. Why did it take Chizmo Charles so long to record? ~ Scott Yanow

James King on vocals and harmonica. James’ twenty-year journey through Pittsburgh’s steamy R & B scene has made his name legendary. From his early days as a founding member of The Iron City Houserockers, his recent stint with The Mystic Knights, and long-time front man with The Professionals and the Usual Suspects, James has shared the stage with the city’s finest musicians and nationally know blues legends. Among those artists are Tinsley Ellis, The Nighthawks, Lenny Kravitz and the late great Stevie Ray Vaughn. James King’s razor sharp chops have made him the harp man to follow.

James Dougherty shows his range as a writer by creating different material with his friend and producer Robert Kasper who sadly passed away in 2004.