Short Fuse was the most challenging and musically talented band I ever belonged to. As a person it helped me to forge friendships that have lasted long past the time the band broke up. I still often play music with several of the musicians from the band. George Kachmar was the lead guitar player, a fine player in his own right able to copy others and at the same time define a style that was unique to him. George's playing is smooth, fast and melodic. His tasty licks lend a few twists and turns to many of the songs on the record. Dave Gravelin, the drummer is someone I always enjoy working with and we still work together in smaller duos and trios whenever we can. Dave is comfortable on both acoustic and electronic percussion and has even had his electronic drumset discussed in "Modern Drummer" magazine. Dave always comes up with catchy drum phrases that help the music move and come to life. Chuck Nardone, the bassist was quick with a grin and eager to lay down the bass of all of our songs. Chuck played both upright and electric bass and when we played together he and I often choreographed our movements to go along with the music and make things just a little more fun to watch. Julio Guera was the frosting on the cake, always playing his heart out on sax, flute and keyboard. Julio often brought his musical expertise to the band helping arrange songs and figure out what musical direction we could take in many songs. My contribution was harmonica, rhythm and sometimes lead guitar and vocals working with George on harmonies we shared the singing of the songs in the band. George and I had already been in another band together which helped us figure out harmonies quickly since we knew each others ranges and vocal strengths. Our band learned many songs as we went through the years of playing together and by being a member of the band I grew as a musician many times over what I was when the band started. Learning new chords and rhythmic styles was always part of the Short Fuse agenda and we progressed to a point where we were playing concerts such as the main act for Fort Myers NEW YEARS EVE CELEBRATION and JAZZ ON THE GREEN opening for THE RIPPINGTONS. We also did concerts for the Chamber of Commerce and lots of private parties and clubs. I hope you enjoy the music of the Short Fuse Band and I think you'll be able to feel some of the energy that was flying around like crazy when we were playing.
