The Eremita Exchange

Lisa Schaffer is an entrepreneur in the true sense of the word.  As one of Philadelphia's most respected and sought-after photographers for the better part of two decades, specializing in capturing musicians in their natural environment, she is a benchmark for professionalism and excellence.  And throw being a DJ into the mix, spinning strictly vinyl, her long-time connection to music has led her to recently opening her own record store, a new direction for a businesswoman and artist who's not afraid to venture down a new path on her journey.  Join us for the trip.

Jay Davidson is one of Philadelphia's premier saxophonists, but he's so much more than that. As a multi-instrumentalist, composer, producer and promoter, he's been involved in the music industry for most of his life, both onstage and in the studio. Having toured nationally and internationally with the likes of Whitney Houston, Steve Winwood, Cinderella and so many other artists.  And he's always brought his best game to any project he's been involved with, including his own. Starting at a young age, he's studied music at every level and he has no intention of stopping any time soon.  Glenn and Jay take a look back at a remarkable career and a look forward to what's still to come.

Besides being an accomplished singer songwriter in her own right, Gretchen Schultz has been an integral part of Christine Havrilla’s music over the years as well as a member of Gypsy Fuzz. Gretchen shares her own story and also pays tribute to Christine’s legacy and how their relationship shaped her as a person and as a musician.  

Bob Beach has established himself as one of Philadelphia's premier harmonica players. And although he was born in Philly, his formative years in music occurred elsewhere, which made his musical journey a "coming home" story of sorts.  Whether playing on the East Coast, West Coast or somewhere in between, just put a harmonica in his hands, stand back and let the magic happen. And Bob's story proves that you CAN come home again.  Join us for the ride.    

Whether busking on the streets of Europe and India, or playing Lincoln Center, Ken Ulansey's journey has taken him to some fascinating places, both musically and geographically.  And as one of Philadelphia's most versatile saxaphone players, Ken has delved into a wide variety of styles and genres throughout his career and taken a most unconventional musical path. Join us for the journey.

Phil D'Agostino, who besides being one of Philadelphia's finest bass players, is also the proprietor of the Eremita Cafe, from where this podcast gets its name.  Phil talks about his start in music, his early days in the Philly music scene, his days with Get the Led Out, and what motivated him to jump into the small business world and the difficulties that accompany that choice.  Songwriter, composer and multi-instrumentalist, not to mention barista extraordinaire, Phil brings a lot to the table. Including Almond Croissants.  And thank god for that. 

Chris Arms and Danny Schogger met in London while they were both in their twenties, a couple of young songwriters working for Ruffhouse Records.  That chance encounter has led to a musical relationship that has spanned nearly four decades.  A kid from Philly and a kid from London who both went on to have successful careers as musicians, producers, songwriters and composers.  Glenn talks to them about their separate journeys from that initial meeting all those years ago and what brings them back together today.

Jamey Reilly has worn more hats than just about anyone in the music business.  As a player, audio engineer, recording design engineer, booking agent, tour manager, presenter, physical therapist, yoga instructor and now owner and proprietor of Jamey's House of Music, he has taken a most unconventional road, both in music and in life. Whether on the road with Aerosmith, sharing a room with Peter Frampton, or being guided by Sufi mystic Bawa, his is a fascinating tale of survival and overcoming the odds.  

After more than forty years of playing electric bass for the likes of James Taylor, Carly Simon, Jefferson Airplane, Jef Lee Johnson, Seamus Egan and supergroup Solas, Jeff Golub and so many others, Chico Huff still considers music a learning process.  In this in-depth exchange, Chico explains his path to and through music and how he has always left his mind open and never been locked into one style or genre.  His versatility is his calling card in a musical life that has been and continues to be, a fascinating  journey. 

Whether it's about playing the southern chitlin circuit as a 12-year-old, being invited by Jimi Hendrix to play sax with him on stage at the Houston Astrodome as a mere teenager; producing two iconic albums with Philadelphia phenom Ernesta Dunbar; or most recently releasing his own album of R&B standards reimagined that's climbing the charts; in this interview with Glenn Barratt, Jerry Burton weaves a fascinating tale of his half-century in the music business.