The Atlantics
The Austin band that keeps you dancing and Winner of the 1998-99 Austin Chronicle Band Poll Award for BEST COVER BAND, The Atlantics consists of some of the most talented musicians and vocalists to hit the scene in two decades.
Let’s begin with the rhythm section. As the foundation of Austin’s best cover band, our drummer has to be the grooviest going. Since his high school days in San Antonio, drummer Mike Canales has been a local legend. He has a Bachelor of Music degree in performance from Berklee College of music (Boston, Mass.). Mike has performed with the Jon Finn Group and studied with Kenwood Dennard, Rod Morgenstein, and Mike Mangini.
All the way from Port Arthur is bass player Evan Arredondo. He has played with Ray Charles, Kirk Whalum, and Earl King. Evan is one of Austin’s most sought after studio musicians.
Originally from Denver, Colorado, keyboard player Matt Russell is a masters student at The University of Texas majoring in jazz composition. In addition to jamming with The Atlantics, Matt also plays piano with various jazz groups around Austin.
Rounding out the crew is guitarist Mike Barnes of Extreme Heat fame. A 22-year veteran of the Austin music scene, Mike’s spicy riffs has graced 7 albums, five albums from Extreme Heat and two albums from Blue Millennium.
Our exciting horn section is made up of 2 of the best players in Austin.
Brian Daft was the lead trumpet in the Southwest Texas State University Jazz Ensemble. He has played with Blue Millennium, Al Grey, Michael Mossman, and has performed at the Montreaux and North Sea Jazz Festivals.
Saxophonist Mace Hibbard is a University of Texas Masters degree candidate, majoring in Jazz Studies. He has performed with the Disney International College Band, the Tommy Dorsey Band, Arturo Sandoval, Bobby Shew, and Michael Brecker.
Our vocalists mix and mesh harmonies “like butta.” Talent and good looks often run together and our vocalists are no exception.
Male vocalist Rod Sanford is Austin theaters’ leading man. In addition to his work in commercials and jingles (Texas Lottery), Rod has recorded for several Disney Children’s Storybooks – including “The Lion King” and “Pocahantas.” He has starred in musicals presented by Zachary Scott Theater – Five Guys Named Moe, Dreamgirls, Rockin’ Christmas Party, Beehive, Avenue X, and Gospel at Colonus.
Female vocalist Courtney Rutherford rounds out this delicious duet, with her sweet voice and winning smile. She has also graced the Austin theater stage in Blue Orpheus, Dreamgirls, Purlie, Gospel at Colonus, and Shakin the Mess Outta Misery. She has an extensive list of voice-overs, jingles, and studio work to her credit as well.
Take all these ingredients, mix in some Oldies, Jazz, Pop, Latin, R&B, Funk, Disco, Rock, and Swing, we have the COMPLETE entertainment package to make your musical event, party, or wedding, the one everyone will be talking about.
Let us entertain YOU!
