Music Is A Breeze

By Jenna Croyle

Think back to the last show you went to, what is the first thing that you remember about the event? For most of us, it is not the Bartender or the drink specials, it’s not even anything special about the place or the people there.

For most people the first thing, the one thing we remember about a show is the music and the band playing it. Whenever a person goes out on the weekend, there are usually only two things they are looking for, great music and a great time.

While many bands can bring oodles of atmosphere and talent, many of them may lack the variety and diversity of music that appeals to just about everybody.

This week’s featured band, The Breeze Band is not only one of the most talented collection of musicians that set the party tone at maximum, but also have the most diverse set list in town.

From Rhythm & Blues to Soul, Rock and Funk, The Breeze Band rocks it all with amazing energy levels and a high performance, high-speed stage show that takes you on a joyride down the superhighway of the musical genres at full throttle.

Having established themselves as a serious force in our local music scene, The Breeze Band is made up of members Maurice Troop on Bass Guitar and Vocals, Kenny Hollis on Lead Guitar and vocals, Rahman Hooks on Drums and Barry King on just about any instrument you can imagine.

The Breeze Band has an extremely diverse and vibrant repertoire of fantastic songs that include “Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)” by Sly and the Family Stone, “Brick House” by the Commodores, “Mony Mony” by Tommy James & the Shondells, “Hold My Hand” by Hootie and the Blowfish along with so many more.

Maurice Troop’s Bass blares the dynamic rhythmic pulse as his walking bass lines move smoothly and effortlessly through each of the various styles of music that the band plays with a confident and impressively talented and electrifying performance every show.

Not only does Troop’s Bass rock the house, but his Vocals are strong, silky and always powerful when he takes the Mic, giving that cool Motown sound to the band, in a style all his own.

The Guitar licks of Kenny Hollis are in no way ordinary, as perhaps the most talented, energetic and stylish Guitarist in all of Erie, Hollis is an amazing unbelievably high-energy performer that is not only a true musical treat to listen to, but an absolute delight to watch as well.

Not only a brilliant Lead guitarist, but an extraordinary Bassist as he has clearly demonstrated on countless occasions when performing with both One World Tribe and BirdSong, also.

Rahman Hooks on Drums is conceivably the perfect choice for this band, his groove driven and distinctive rhythms are creatively mastered and executed as he creates a thrilling, power packed experience of Funky Rock beats.

Finally, the most unique and notable part of this amazing ensemble of high powered musicians is the addition of perhaps Erie’s only true living musical legend, Barry King. If you live in Erie, and know anything about music, then you must know the name Barry King.

As a spot on genius with any style of music and a master of at least 48 various instruments including Guitar, Keyboard, and Harmonica, King has traveled the globe singing and playing his music from Jamaica, Germany, Australia and Canada, to the American Virgin Islands along with countless U.S. venues from coast to coast.

Originally from Chicago, King has played with many of music’s legendary performers and hit makers including Arthur Prysock, Lou Rawls and Jean “The Duke of Earl” Chandler to name only a few.

With superstar talent, an ignitable stage presence and a laundry list of the best Rhythm & Blues, Soul, Rock and Funk covers of our time, all delivered with the most fantastic and zapping energy that just strikes you like a lightning bolt from the stage.

If you are looking for more than just good music, much more than the usual party in the bar experience, and most importantly, the best collection of the greatest music of our time, then The Breeze Band is all that on steroids, and so much more.

For more information on The Breeze Band and their show dates and booking information, please visit their Facebook Page.