Spirit Shakers may be one of Kenosha’s only supergroups. And now, music lovers in the local area can catch them at Public Brewing Co. every Wednesday.
Formed by Oscar and Max — who play guitar and drums, respectively — the band has an energy unlike others in the area, and each member brings their own solo talents into the mix in a way that adds entirely to the whole.
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DonateDonate monthlyDonate yearlyMany around the area know Oscar as one of the best solo guitar players in the city. Throughout the years, you could catch Oscar backing artists like Miss B. Haven, Brittany Lumley, Old Brown Shoes and the list goes on. Not only is his style something people envy, but also he’s just a genuinely nice guy who’s a pleasure to have around.
Max brings a manner of controlled chaos to the group. If you know Max at all, you know that you’ve never seen the man tired. Whether you’re seeing him first thing in the morning or late at night, Max is bringing his energy to you, and you better be ready for it. As well as being in the band, Max is an accomplished drummer who also jumps in with other bands who seek him out for a set here and there.
While Oscar and Max may be the most visible members of the band — hosting an open mic at Kenosha Yacht Club every Thursday from 8:30 to 11 p.m. — the other two members, Mitch and Alex are quietly two of the most talented musicians you’d meet here.
Mitch, who you mostly find on guitar, is a local singer-songwriter. While he’s been friends with Max and Oscar for a while, he actually started with his own solo project — which he still plays out as from time to time. It wasn’t until the past year or so that Mitch joined the band, bringing in another strong vocal presence for harmonies and another knowledgeable set of hands to slide around on scales.
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Alex is, perhaps, the least well-known member of the band; however, that’s simply due to the fact that he just entered the Kenosha music scene in the last year. A transplant from Sweden, Alex is a virtuoso on the keys. If you’ve had the opportunity to catch him playing a set as his solo project — Black Lodger — you’ve probably been mystified by how he’s able to create an all-encompassing, full sound with just his keyboard and a looping machine. I’ve only witnessed it a few times, and each time how he seamlessly mixes every part together just engulfs me completely in the music.
Together, the Spirit Shakers have been rocking out festivals, bar rooms and anywhere that welcomes them around the Kenosha, Racine and northern Illinois areas. You can catch them weekly on Wednesdays from 7 to 10 p.m. for their residency at Public Brewing Co., 628 58th St. in downtown Kenosha.
Below, please enjoy some photos and videos from this past Wednesday’s performance during their Public Brewing Co. residency.
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Ep. 26: Two notes on being a gigging musician. – Inside the Mind of Daniel Thompson
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