The Harmonicats — Music Videos

A harmonica ensemble from Chicago

The Harmonicats, also known as Jerry Murad’s Harmonicats, was an American instrumental group whose best-known trio consisted of Jerry Murad, Al Fiore, and Don Les. Each musician occupied a different role: Murad played lead chromatic harmonica, Fiore the chord harmonica, and Les the bass harmonica. The different instruments gave a small ensemble the ability to carry melody, harmony, and a bass foundation without relying on three identical-sounding parts.

The recording of Peg o’ My Heart

Their version of “Peg o’ My Heart,” recorded in 1947, became the group’s defining popular success. The sessions were made with engineer Bill Putnam for the Vitacoustic label and also included accompanying guitar and string bass. The recording is notable for its use of echo as part of the sound, giving the harmonicas an unusual depth and resonance. It helped bring their instrumental approach to listeners beyond established harmonica audiences.

A continuing performing group

The Harmonicats continued making records and appearing in nightclubs and on television, with later personnel changes following the classic trio. Their arrangements demonstrate how strongly contrasting harmonica ranges can function together as an ensemble. The appeal lies in that coordinated sound as well as the virtuosity of individual players, allowing familiar popular melodies to be heard through an uncommon instrumental combination.