Choptank Murphy is an original band based in Northern VA. Formed nearly 15 years ago, the band has moved through a variety of different styles and a number of different line-ups. The group started out as an acoustic trio, later building itself into a six piece electric band, and more recently, morphing into the current four man line-up.
Choptank derives its sound from a variety of influences creating a unique original style that has aptly been referred to as Suburban Soul.
Choptank released its first studio effort in 2002 -- The Plastic Welcome Mat EP -- consisting of five songs carefully selected from the group's arsenal of original material.
We invite you to check out the sights and sounds of Choptank Murphy.
Choptank Murphy rolls out the Plastic Welcome Mat EP
Released in late 2002, The Plastic Welcome Mat EP offers just a taste of what Choptank delivers on stage. From Jazz, Blues and Funk, to straight up Rock & Roll, the five tracks carefully selected from the band's arsenal of original material showcase several of Choptank's many styles.
The opening track, Mistaken, is the funk the whole funk and nothing but the funk. Inspired by the great funkmasters of the early 1970s, this track is sho nuff guaranteed to get you on your feet.
Satellite is a journey back to the Halcyon days of "better things for better living." The nostalgic feel of this jazzy little tune is sure to take you back.
Deep Water is Choptank's tribute to the Blues. Some people say they hear in the song a Sunday preacher searching for salvation, others hear a death row inmate making his last phone call to the outside. Whatever you hear in the song, you certainly won't miss the incredible harmonica skills of Marvin "Harps" Dolinger.
Grey Angel is inspired by a conversation Chad had with a Russian artist a few years after the fall of Communism. With a beautiful, haunting melody, it remains an introspective take on those times. This track has become a fan favorite and is often requested at Choptank shows.
Written as a tribute to the late great Ella Fitzgerald, Skat, as the name implies, showcases Chad's uncanny ability to use his voice as just another instrument in the band's mix.
Thanks for adding me, guys. I'm good friends with Mr. Pasa and believe I met one of you at their IOTA show months back. I love your music and hope to make it to a show of yours soon! - ashley
Hi there! If you could take a minute, please vote for us in the Coldplay opening slot competition for DC at http://www.coldplayontour.com/wwdc/ . We're the 11th video down or 5th from the bottom. The still should be a girl singing in a tanktop. Please vote by the 17th of July Thanks!
Hey Gabe and the guys- I am so happy to hear you all are playing at Kate's! I hope Bud will pick some tunes with you all!! I am bummed that I can't be there....we will catch the next one with our newest addition and when Mommy can enjoy a nice cold beer!! 9 weeks to go!! Good Luck this weekend!
It was cool seeing you and Chaz as brief as it was. Did you talk to Don about the chick kicking everyone out the way she did? Anyway, we'll all have to hang out again and try to keep Don 'aware' so we can actually catch up with him. I don't think he even knows we were there. *laugh*
Sorry I couldn't make it last night but now that I'm on your site, I can try to meet up for your other play dates. Hope to see you Wednesday at Dogfish Head! Let the rest of the gang know like Don and Chris.
what's up tank-ers! I guess he's cool if you're into that whole not lame scene. sorry I can't come to the show on friday my awesome band is also playing that night. we should start booking shows together in order to avoid scheduling mishaps like this in the future. break a leg and a string and we'll see you in the funnies. oh also can we all go to open mic night when heroes goes on hiatus again? I'd really like that
Gabe Smith- WOW! Amazing the people you find on here! Love the sound! Next time I am in town I will come out and support you all! Tell me what has life brought your way? How is your mom?
Monday morning, 32 people got up and went about their Monday routines, never knowing that this day would be their last. Life is too short. The people on your friends list were accepted for many different reasons. Take the time to tell them you care, that you love them, and that their presence means something to you. I just did. *J
Yes!!! Mr. D and the group are in full effect eh? This is what we like to see, this is what we like indeed...sick tunes fellas...take care now,
FunkMnkyz
I can't find the tour schedule! You know, up coming shows, that sort of thing. I don't see anything on this site about where or when or if at all you guys are playing anywhere. Might that information become available? You do play out sometimes, right? Well, what I was wondering was when and where that might be. The Funk Mnkyz are very, very good about letting me know when they will be playing various venues. I go, I get my hand in the air as instructed and everyone seems happy enough. But YOU guys..... no gigs! I see no gigs posted anywhere on your site! WHAT"S UP WITH THAT? Will you be playing anytime soon? At a public venue? I would LOVE to know! Please keep me in the loop, if there is a loop. Is there a loop? Cause I'd love to be in it if there is one, especially so I could know things like WHEN AND WHERE YOU FOLKS ARE PLAYING cause I'd LOVE TO COME SEE YOU PLAY SOMEWHERE. You do that kind of thing, right?
peace
Danny
