Drummer, singer, songwriter, musical director, and producer James “Biscuit” Rouse recently released his first solo album titled "Biscuit and Buddy" after working as a sought-after drummer and vocalist in many bands. Rouse a Philadelphia native decided to bring a twist to this debut release and largely dedicated it to interpreting the music of one of his heroes, drummer George “Buddy” Miles. Buddy Miles is best known for his work with Jimi Hendrix, Carlos Santana, The Electric Flag, Mike Bloomfield and Bootsy Collins, but he’s also known for interpreting tracks like “Down by the River,” written by Neil Young.
After interpreting some of Miles’ music live with Vernon Reid, Rouse received encouragement to keep exploring Miles’ music, resulting in several years’ work leading up to the album. He had the support and encouragement of many of the musicians who had worked with Buddy Miles in the past and the great guest musicians Doug Wimbash on bass, Vernon Reid on guitar, and Marcus Machado on guita who appear on the album.. Rouse received the Buddy Miles award at the R & B Hall of Fame induction on October 6th in Cleveland. he will be sharing Buddy's music live at the Lizzie Rose Music Room.
Keyboardist Jeff Levine has been playing professionally since the age of 13. An organist/pianist with a strong background in Rhythm & Blues, Jeff has toured extensively with: The Chambers Brothers (’72-'75), James Montgomery Band ('77-'79), Clarence Clemons ('81-'82), Bo Diddley ('84-'85), Darlene Love (’93-94, 2018-2019), Hall & Oates (’95-’01), John Fogerty (2004), , Joe Cocker ('86-'91;- 2012).
