The Chain: A Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band

I've never before written about the recent trend in tribute bands, most of whom associate themselves with the music of the classic rock era. I've always believed that while it is one thing to cover someone else's music it is often an unsettling experience when the musicians on stage become the band they love so much. But now, The Chain, a Fleetwood Mac tribute band, is helping me change my mind. The Chain is also known as Harder Edge, the original incarnation of the same band that specializes in classic rock covers. However, when Harder Edge's fans told their bandleader, founder, and drummer, Jim Stamps, that he looks like Mick Fleetwood and that lead singer Kim Scholl sounds a lot like Stevie Nicks they decided to do an entire show devoted to the Mac's music. Today, while both versions of the band still exist, their preference and focus lies with The Chain.

In addition to Stamps and Scholl the Pittsburgh based sextet includes Rob Gamerro as John McVie on bass, Sandy Anderson as Christine McVie on keyboards and lead vocals, and Keith Cole as Jeremy Spencer on guitar and vocals. The group is rounded out by newcomer Tony Acker who has morphed into Lindsey Buckingham since joining them.

The only way to obtain a copy of The Chain's seven song CD (pictured here) is to win one at their shows. The prize is given away to about a dozen or so fans who look the best in their Fleetwood Mac garb. Unfortunately, the disc is never for sale but I've had the pleasure of obtaining a copy without having to pretend I'm Fleetwood, Buckingham, or anyone else in the band. (I'd make a terrible looking Stevie Nicks.) Speaking of Nicks, just listen to Scholl steal the star's voice on "Sara," one of the CD's tunes found on the band's music player. There you can listen to all of the tracks from the disc including "Gypsy," "Don't Stop," "Say That You Love Me," and more. The group has also released three CDs under the Harder Edge moniker.

It's obvious that Stamps loves the veteran British all-stars. He says, "What's really cool about about Stevie Nicks and Fleetwood Mac is they're timeless. Their music has lasted decades and each new generation that has come along has always embraced it." When asked if anyone from Fleetwood Mac has been in touch with The Chain Stamps said no, but they did send a CD to Nicks who apparently must approve because she added their link to her website.

I've never seen the The Chain/Harder Edge live. All I know about them musically are the songs I've heard on The Chain's self-titled disc and the videos posted on their website. They are enough to prove how talented these crooks are. Apparently Pittsburgh must agree because the band played to a standing room only crowd at the Steel City's Hard Rock Cafe this past summer and they are looking forward to a possible West Coast tour this year.