Bands and Musicians Who've Played at Bluz at The Bend
The Cronkites
The Cronkites are one of the Inland Northwest’s premier bands. Whether playing at Local Nightclubs, opening for National acts, or performing at weddings and corporate parties, The Cronkites blend music, energy, and humour into their own brand of entertainment for all types and all ages.
Sammy Eubanks
Not much can be said that hasn’t already been said, written or thought about this outstanding musician. Sammy’s name alone speaks volumes----as does his music! Quite possibly the most reputable musician in the Inland Empire, Sammy Eubanks delivers a quality performance every time he takes the stage, playing a variety of Blues, Country and Rock n’ Roll Classics all over the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Influenced by many artists and styles, he too demonstrates diversified talent rarely seen in music today. Ever the skillful vocalist and guitar player, he is a leader in the Northwest music scene. Sammy has won multiple awards and recognitions ranging from the Inland Empire Blues Societies’ Empire Award for “Best Male Vocalist” to the Inlander Magazines reader voted “Best Local Musician” award for 2007
The Fat Tones
The Fat Tones (Bobby Patterson, Guitar and Vocals. Bob Ehrgott, Bass and Vocals. Robby Minton, Drums and Vocals.) were awarded the Best Blues Band band by the Inland Empire Blues Society for 2005. If you still have not seen these guys light up the stage yet your missing out, check out the dates they are playing and get your butt on the dance floor. Their influences are Alvin Lee, Delbert McClinton, The Rolling Stones, Johnny Winter and too many others to list.
Mr. Happy
Although Mr. Happy doesn't tour too far away from their home town of Spokane, WA their music does. Mr. Happy is finally going to break down and have CD's of their music available for all their fans that have been pleading with the band to do so. So please check back soon for more info on when their music CD's will be available. While other bands wow us with the special effects we all love, it's a nice reality to step back to an intelligent and personable band like Mr. Happy whenever possible.
They're need for playing just because they love music and adore being part of a great culture & industry that puts fun & happiness in front of life's drama keeps them real. Life is dramatic enough and even overpoweringly sad sometimes and it's really nice to be pulled back out of life's sad realities and into a much more happy environment. If you are anywhere near the northwest at anytime it would be well worth your while to seek them out for a great night or weekend out and please feel free to email them at anytime for any info whatsoever.
Kolvane
Kolvane is well known for its entertaining, take-no-prisoners live performances. One of the top NW bands, Portland-based Kolvane tours the West Coast, creating an original sound that energizes fans to get up and dance. This award-winning quartet gives audiences a fresh, dynamic approach to the classic Blues traditions. Its well-honed songs propel the heart of traditional Delta and Chicago Blues forward into a unique Powerhouse sound. Combining hard-driving rhythms, soulful vocals, and rollicking piano, Kolvane pleases general audiences and Blues enthusiasts alike. Dan “Kolvane” Berkery was the creator and driving force behind the two-time Muddy Award winning Rose City Kings, which morphed into "Kolvane," playing a rollicking style of rock with the crash-energy Kolvane blasting around the stage and Louisiana keyboard monster Steve Kerin rattling the room with his boogie-woogie style.
The Perones
The Perones were formed in July of 1989 by Jon Pieroni on vocals, and his brother Mark on drums. They were together in successful bands in Spokane from the mid '70s including "Hot Stuff", and "The Cads of Badness". Aaron Boschee was added on the bass. Aaron had played in Spokane since the late '60s with bands including "Good Morning", and "Rendevous". Eric Burgeson, from Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, joined on guitar and vocals. Eric started in the mid '60s with bands including "Shyanne", and "Foghat". The group put together a list of classic rock songs from the '50s to present, and started playing.
In '90 they added a young keyboardist, Forrest Wolf. He brought a new dimension to the band. He left 2 years later to pursue a solo career, but left a need for the bigger sound. The band decided to stay 4 piece, and add keyboard sequencing. The formula worked.
Mark left the band in '96 to play with other Spokane bands, and the Perones were lucky to find Jimi Schlegel from SoCal. Jimi brought a new voice and songs to the band. His amiable personality, and smooth style were an instant hit. He became a good friend. Jimi was with the band for over 10 years before he left to take a teaching job on Whidby Island.
Mark returned to replace Jimi in September of '06. His distinctive style, and rock solid grooves are the backbone of the Perones sound. The experience of the band spans decades. Come see us. We can't wait to see you.
Studebaker John & The Hawks
Studebaker John is a master slide guitarist and harpist and has just released his 10th album, "Self Made Man." Playing with him as The Hawks are Bob Halaj on bass and Willie "The Touch" Hayes on drums.
John began his career in Chicago in 1978, touring with the Yardbirds and is on their record "Wine, Women & Whiskey." John's tune "Time Will Tell" was performed in the movie "Cowboy Up" Starring Kiefer Sutherland and Darrel Hannah in 1997. Studebaker John & The Hawks have toured throughout Europe, headlining festivals in France, Germany, Holland and Denmark, as well as having toured throughout America for over four decades. As a song writer and performer John has emerged as a major creative force in the world of Blues today. He is ahead of the pack, with vision and foresight, creating a new standard for Blues Music. This is a must see show!
