Chris Antonik

The debut solo album from Toronto guitarist Chris Antonik is a diverse, soulful and tightly executed blend of classic guitar blues and original, innovative, contemporary blues-rock. After thrilling audiences in Toronto blues clubs as a sideman, Antonik has stepped out on his own to deliver this self-produced collection of original material and two classic blues covers. The album “Chris Antonik” is a portrait of a maturing blues guitarist and songwriter who fully grasps the importance of song over solo - while still leaving plenty for guitar fans to enjoy. The songs deal with repairing relationships and giving back to those around you, as well as classic blues themes delivered in modern vehicles. Using the guitarist–as–front man approach and a variety of guest vocalists, the record is a solid collection of soulful, strong and smart blues. Guest performers include some of Chris’ friends from the Canadian blues scene, including Mark Stafford, Suzie Vinnick and Richard Underhill. The primary vocalist and keyboardist on the record is the gritty and stirring Josh Williams of the jam band Fat Cats. Bassist Andrew Taylor (The Blazers) and drummer Chris Chiarelli provide the tight and funky rhythm section. The album was produced by Antonik, recorded at Audiolab Recording Company in Toronto, and mixed and mastered at Silverbirch Productions in Toronto. On stage, Chris currently plays in a stripped-down, old-school Chicago blues trio with Mark Stafford and guitarist Pete Schmidt (Mel Brown, Jack Dekeyzer). In 2010, Chris also shared the stage with Juno-winning guitarist Darran Poole (Fathead, Gary Kendall) as part of a similar trio. In the coming months, the Chris Antonik Band will also be assembling to support the new album.