Aqus Music

June 7th 10:30am - 12:30pm

Chris Samson at Aqus Cafe
Featuring Gary Grubb and Steve Della Maggiora, plus special guests

Chris Samson’s new CD, “In My Own Time,” will be available for the first time when he plays at the Aqus Café on Saturday, June 7. Chris will be accompanied by Gary Grubb and Steve Della Maggiora, plus special guests. A singer-songwriter-guitarist and longtime Petaluma resident, his debut CD showcases 14 of his original songs, recorded with some of the top musicians in Northern California, including guitarist Keith Allen (Steve Miller Band), violinist Al Garth (Eagles), harmonica player Bruce Kurnow (Mason Proffit), singer-pianist George Merrill (Boy Meets Girl) and trumpet player Peter Welker (Cold Blood), who also co-produced the CD. His songs, which range from intensely personal ballads like “Snakes and Dust” to the rollicking “Cold Weather, Broken Car, Infidelity Blues” to the stirring “Salvation Train,” are rooted in American folk, popular and traditional music. Chris is the co-host of the monthly Moose Open Mike Night and has performed locally at several local venues. He has opened for Norton Buffalo and David LaFlamme (It’s a Beautiful Day) at the Petaluma Veterans Building, accompanied by Gary and Steve.

Gary Grubb played guitar professionally for many years in California, Nevada and across the Midwest. He was band leader for Country Rush at one of Northern California’s largest nightspots for five years. His flair for adding new dimensions to the music of those he accompanies makes him a popular collaborator for many local performers. He is a member of The Two of Us, a four-piece duo.

Steve Della Maggiora’s first instrument was the accordion, but he also plays guitar, bass, and keyboards. A talented artist, he created the Petaluma Heritage Mural on the side of the old Goodwill building on Washington Street in downtown Petaluma. He has played with several bands over the years, including California Zephyr. He regularly plays at Kelley’s No Bad Days Cafe in Napa.