Former Allman Brother and longtime Rolling Stone keyboardist Chuck Leavell will focus on his solo work in January, rounding up a number of friends for a performance by The Werewolves. On January 18, 2007, a stacked version of The Werewolves will perform at San Franciscos intimate Bimbos 365 Club, raising money for a variety of Bay Area music childrens programs. The all-star group includes Bob Weir, guitarist Mark Karan (RatDog), drummer Narada Michael Walden (Sting, Jeff Beck, Mahavishnu Orchestra), harmonica-ace Norton Buffalo (Steve Miller Band, Bonnie Raitt), guitarist Jimmy Dillon (Clarence Clemons, Springsteen, BSMC Director), keyboardist Ozzie Ahlers (Van Morrison, Jerry Garcia Band), and bassist Dewayne Pate (Robben Ford Band). A number of requisite special friends will be confirmed in the coming weeks.
In somewhat related news, RatDog has also confirmed its first round of west coast winter dates, beginning February 9 at San Diego, CAs House of Blues. The members of RatDog have remained busy while off the road. On December 1, Weir and drummer Jay Lane performed with the Rhythm Devils at December 1s Rex Foundation benefit at San Franciscos the Warfield, while on November 30 Karan and keyboardist Jeff Chimenti performed with the New Riders of the Purple Sage at the Great American Music Hall.