The Charles Walker Band (aka CWB) will bring its “neo-funk” swagger to the WORT Block Party this Sunday. CWB is set to take the stage on MLK Boulevard at 4:15 p.m.
This well-traveled Milwaukee-based band blends gospel, soul, R & B, blues, funk and pop into a tasty gumbo of sound. Winners of the 2013 WAMI award for best soul/R&B group, the Charles Walker Band recently released its eighth album, Ghetto Prophet (2015, Ehlona Records).
Walker’s bringing his horn section with him for Sunday’s gig in Madison. They’ll augment the core group of Brian Kennedy (bass), Nathan P. (rhythm guitar), Josh McHatten (drums). Charles Walker (sax, keys & vocals) and Porsche Carmon (vocals & congas).
If you dig Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings, you’ll enjoy the exciting show put on by CWB. Charles cites Stevie Wonder, Prince and Luther Allison as influences. Yet he never stops evolving his dynamic bluesy sound, whether playing covers or original songs.
Blessed with chops strong enough for jaded adults as well as a sense of humor that also appeals to kids, the Charles Walker Band has opened for such musical legends as BB King, Robert Cray, Aaron Neville, and Earth, Wind & Fire.
Having seen them blow the roof off the cozy Yardarm bar & restaurant in Racine, I can’t wait to see what they’ll do at the WORT Block Party’s picturesque outdoor venue near the state capitol.
Treat yourself to some heavy grooves and be sure to bring your dancing shoes to the WORT Block Party this Sunday afternoon. It’s all proudly sponsored by your favorite listener-sponsored radio station, WORT. Providing Madison with aural pleasure since 1975, we keep on pushing.