Roots music cover band heads to Strathmore

Miriam Ostermann
Times Associate Editor

 

It’s been nearly 25 years and the seven-member band, Doctor Zeuss and the Blues Whos, is still rocking out on stage, performing roots based R&B music with a twist – an experience coming soon to Strathmore.
While band members have performed in Strathmore individually, the Calgary-based cover band, which is complete with guitars, percussion, trumpets, a horn section and much more, will take to the stage at the Travelodge in two weeks for the first time.
“We always like to put on a good show, but when the crowd is into it, that’s when we really find that the energy level picks up a notch and that’s always a great thing for us,” said Tom Magee, who performs keyboards and vocals for the band.
“We want to play for people who enjoy music and enjoy dancing. People in general are surprised by our variety and our ability to play various styles.”
Doctor Zeuss and the Blues Whos was formed in 1991 after several failed attempts. It wasn’t until one of the band members suggested playing cover tunes based in real soul music and R&B. Although some members didn’t jump on the bandwagon right away, they grew to love the experience. However, keeping the band together for over two decades was no easy feat, and Magee said a common interest and resolving personal and professional conflicts quickly ensured the success over the years.
“It’s a challenge for getting a schedule together for everybody that’s for sure, but one thing that we have found is that our music styles when we write, because we do write individually, can be different but when we get together and play, we all have a common will of meshing our sound,” said Magee.
“We’re not looking to get a record deal and ego can play a big part in an original band or even in musicians who just want to take over the show. We’re a seven-piece group of guys who are all very good, but we’re better together.”
Aside from staying busy with their day jobs, Rod Bader, Scott Clare, Doug Jackson, Tom Magee, Tod Petersen, Dave Riley, Dale Wilson, and Dave Harrison have performed together in Red Deer, Edmonton, Toronto, cities in the United States and smaller towns around Alberta.
In collaboration with the Strathmore Musical Arts Society, Doctor Zeuss and the Blues Whos will be performing at the Strathmore Travelodge on April 23 with the show starting at 8 p.m. Tickets are $50 and will be available in Strathmore at the Assist Business Centre, Marlin Travel, Pro Water Systems, and Chinook Financial. For more information call 403-680-7721 or visit www.strathmorearts.com.