For the Benefit of Mr. Cole

Like any business, the world of music can be viciously competitive. In times of need, however, it can also be a comfort.

Bryan Cole is the drummer for Fuzzy’s regulars Java Monkey. He’s also the “C” of CMO Productions, which recently released CDs by Francine Reed and the Shadows. Cole, 50, suffered a heart attack following a

March 10 gig. He required emergency surgery and complications led to amputation of his right leg. He remains hospitalized. Atlanta’s music community has responded with several benefits for Cole, including two recent shows at Fuzzy’s, where Cole’s wife Lisa is a waitress.

“The support has been overwhelming,” says Cole’s business partner, Edd Miller, who with Cole and Jimmy O’Neill comprise CMO. “It’s one of the many factors that has kept him alive.”

This Sunday, beginning at 5 p.m., Smith’s Olde Bar hosts a benefit featuring Tinsley Ellis (in a rare solo performance), Francine Reed, Tommy Dean, Cal Woodard, Nelson Nolen, Java Monkey and others. “Bryan’s a wonderful human being in some serious health trouble, and we just want to do anything we can to help out,” says Dan Nolen of Nolen Reeves Music, owners of Smith’s. “Hopefully we can raise a good bit of money and help the family out.”

Cole’s progress is “nothing short of a miracle,” says Miller, but he doesn’t know yet how long Cole will remain hospitalized. The family faces extraordinary expenses related to Cole’s care. Those who would like to make contributions may do so online via the CMO Web site (cmopro.com/info/Bryan_Updates.htm) or by mail, payable to Lisa Cole, at CMO Productions, 2310-D Marietta Blvd. NW, Atlanta, GA 30318-1333. Contributions can also be made to the Bryan Cole Trust Fund, c/o Lennord Peck L.C., 1827 Powers Ferry Road, Bldg. #2, Atlanta, GA 30339.

The Bryan Cole Benefit takes place Sun., April 8, at Smith’s Olde Bar.??