Chris "CP" Polak
Guitar / Vocals


Chris started playing guitar in the 2nd grade and took lessons at a local music store with 12 other students - all strumming together in a classroom. He then got his first gig playing at a guitar mass with Sister Natalie of Ascension of Our Lord Catholic Church that same year. Chris' dad (a John Phillip Sousa Award winning musician) began to teach CP and his two brothers how to sing harmonies. Eventually, using money his paper route, he bought his first electric guitar and amplifier in the 6th grade. From there, Chris has played and sang in many bands including the following:

ROC (1983 - 1986) - Mark Polak (Grin & Bare It; DramaRock; musical Hair; Saturday Night Fever; musical Joker; etc.), Chris Telzerow (Sirrus), Bob McLaughlin, Eric (Eroc) Sosinski, of Michael Stanley Band, Tye Dye Harvest, and Wish You Were Here and I, were the lineup. This is the band that was visited by national act, Poison, at a gig at Shadows Rock Club. Poison later took the stage and played 4 songs for the surprised audience.
The Difference (1987 - 1990) - Lisa Reinker (Sommer) of many Cleveland area bands and Mike Cavanaugh (Billy Joel's MOVIN'OUT Broadway production) were members of this band.
The Cause(1994) - This was a trio built around Mike Cavanaugh on lead vocals, bass guitar, and keyboards. Jeff Kennat (Tony Cameratto Band) and Chris supported Mike and also sang lead vocals.
Toast (1996 - 1997) - My brother Scott Polak (Franklin Castle; 10 Pound Bag) and good friend Tom Wulff conceived this band, which is well known and still playing the Cleveland area clubs. Tom Lauerhaus ("Tommy Toast") was brought in to be lead vocalist/front man and Bob Patton came on to play lead guitar. Chris played in both Charlie In The Box and Toast, but, eventually had to depart, due to scheduling conflicts.


CP says "I am very lucky to be part of this group of great, talented people. And, I love all of the friends that come to see us play. I am looking forward to many more fun times with this band."