CC Smokes was formed in 2024 with the goal of playing music with a funky, soulful groove. The 5 piece band includes experienced players from the Albany area with an enormous amount of musical experience.

Jill Hughes - Lead and Backing Vocals

Jill’s decades of experience include many accomplishments. Locally, she is known for her residency at The Metro in Saratoga, long tenure working with Body and Soul and lead vocals for local blues great Matt Mirabile. Jill has been voted Metroland’s Best Jazz/R&B Vocalist numerous times and performed at legendary clubs such as Birdland. She had the pleasure of singing the National Anthem at Camden Yards (2005) performing as opening act for David Sanborn.

Michael Wooten - Guitar, Lead and Backing Vocals

Originally from Boston Ma, Mike’s spontaneous musicality and association with countless entertainers has led to performances with  internationally known artists such as George Porter Jr. (The Meters), Adam Deitch (Lettuce), and Louis Cato (The Tonight Show Band). In addition, he was a member of local greats Solid Smoke.

Cliff Avery - Bass and Backing Vocals

This Albany native has been a strong presence on the contemporary jazz and gospel scene for more than two decades. As composer and band leader of Red Clay Jazz, he released Upstate Groove (2003) and performed as opening act for Stefon Harris and Blackout, Angelique Banks, and Dionne Warwick.

Larry Pape - Keyboards

Larry has been on the local music scene since the 1970’s. He played in a variety of bands, most notably as the keyboardist for Adirondack, with whom he performed with throughout the Northeast. Larry has opened for several internationally known acts, including Joe Cocker, taking the stage at SPAC and The Palace, After decades of performing, Larry took a 13 year hiatus. In February of 2025 he made a long overdue return to the stage with CC Smokes.

Gary Nowik - Drums and Backing Vocals

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