US/UK - bleedingHARP
"High & Low"
V-Neck Records 2000
10 Tracks

As the blurb says, "A new harmonica slinger in
town!!" A matter of opinion, I know, but the Blues is a North American music form, and few interpret it better than New Jersey's Paul Vallis-possessed of fine Blues tonsils and parping a mean harp says' " Noggin". This is an outstanding CD: short on it's number of tracks but long on entirely self-penned quality songs. This tight band, (the rest are from the U.K.), gives us the live feel of authentic Rhythm and Blues.
"Hard Way", a powerful if embittered song, gives way to the slow Blues and excellent harp of "Fruit Cake". A nod to the Fabulous Thunderbirds in "At the End of the Line" is followed by the menace of the title Track. The CD ends with the story of the bleedingHARP.

In a word...stonking!...book 'em quick.

"Excellent Harmonica playing
from my man, Paul Vallis"
Paul Jones, Jazz FM

"Authentic Harmonica-Heavy
Blues"
Time Out

"The best damn Blues band this
side of the Atlantic"
Online TV

"Great up front rollicking
Harmonica with a very modern
feel...a very tight band.
BleedingHARP always give value
for money and their musicianship is
an inspiration to others, me
included. Long may they continue to
grace the Blues circuit here and
in Europe.
Bill Smith, Blueprint 99

bleedingHARP
Genuine US Harmonica Driven Blues

There's a new Harmonica Slinger in town... Originally from New Jersey, USA, Paul Vallis has invaded UK shores to front this hard working four-piece Harmonica-lead Blues outfit called BleedingHARP. Vallis skillfully threads together the styles of his mentors, Junior Wells and Sugar Blue, with modern Blues vibes of Stevie Ray Vaughn and Buddy Guy to bring a new and unique interpretation of Blues Harmonica to the fore, mixed with soulful vocals.

BleedingHARP have been getting rave reviews in Britain and in the Czech Republic, where they supported BB King in July, 2000.

CONTACT/BOOK: DIANE WILLIAMS @ DINER ENTERTAINMENT 661-993-4113

SOUTHLAND BLUES MAGAZINE
BLEEDING HARP
Hi and Low
V-Neck

Bleeding Harp is singer/harpist Paul Vallis, guitarist Clayton Moss, bassist Alex Santoni and drummer Tony Hopkins. Vallis, a New Jersey native who's based in London, leads the band. The others sing backup. Their interpretations, all originals, merge contemporary with the Blues. While his storytelling isn't convincing, Vallis casts a long shadow as an entertainer. After all, in England he's a well-known actor, comedian and impressionist.
With his Blues band, Vallis can play the part with taste, using common sense. What's missing is the passion. On Blues harp, however, Vallis burns up the stage. His instrumental interludes and Moss's guitar romps make a winning formula. After a well-planned full band intro to "Hi & Lo," Vallis sings about looking "high and low" for you. "You say you're gonna be there...it still don't mean a damn thing to you." Then, harp and guitar solos give the song it's true meaning, as they both kick off their shoes, take a devil-may-care attitude, and run with it to greener pastures.
The final track, "Bleeding Harp," features lyrics about "looking for a good time." It suits their music even better. After all, Bleeding Harp remains a fun loving band that romps casually over relaxed Blues. Their instrumental cameraderie serves as a cure for the Blues.

-----Jim Santella