The Hard Line

“Chris O’Leary generates authority…with a huge voice \[and\] a force-of-nature harmonica sound.” –GREIL MARCUS

“Gritty blues and soulful ballads \[performed with\] absolute authority. Chris O’Leary rocks relentlessly with assurance and a clear sense of passion. A potent, raging tour-de-force.” –LIVING BLUES

Alligator debut from one of the blues’ most talented unsung heroes, a deeply soulful vocalist, powerhouse harmonica player and gifted songwriter. Chris O’Leary is a sevenyear U.S. Marine combat veteran, a single father of two and for six years was lead singer in the legendary Levon Helm’s band, The Barn Burners.

A dynamic and commanding live performer, Chris O’Leary has played live all over the U.S., as well as in Canada, the UK, France, Spain, Denmark, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Czech Republic, Portugal, Switzerland, Austria and Slovakia. He’s also a tireless road warrior, and tour dates in support of The Hard Line begin January 13th in Beacon, NY and run down the East Coast to Florida and back, including dates in the Boston, Washington, DC, Tallahassee, Fort Lauderdale, Charlotte and Durham metros. Spring dates will be in the Midwest and a West Coast run is planned for summer.

The Hard Line shines with 12 striking original songs that draw from O’Leary’s rich personal history. Engaging, sharp-edged observations on life and love are shot through with everyman wisdom and humor, and set to rollicking roadhouse R&B, hard Chicago blues and wrenching ballads. O’Leary’s rough, riveting vocals and world-class harmonica playing set the pace throughout.