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A soulful and melodic, jazz-infused exploratory rock band. The Handstanders. Embracing past and present, near and far, composed and improvised.
Born out of late-night jam sessions at Handstand - the art studio of founding member Jamey Barnard (drums/keys)- The Handstanders aesthetic blends extempore groove, expressionism, ambience and anthem. Saxophonist Yali Rivlin, an Israeli-American musician and dancer, evokes melodic sensibilities of the hard bop and fusion eras of jazz. Lead vocalist Casey Chinnock distills his soulful lyrical elements from working life, history, and nature, often while stacking dry stone. Who plays the piano? Who plays the drums? It depends on the song. Multi-instrumentalist Trevor Hobbs brings the essence of drumline marching in 7/4, both to the keys and skins, while John Storms-Rohm- unwavering guide of chord and tonality - leads with staff in hand. Wait… Is that a puppet made from an old paint brush? Their music is fun, raw, expansive, and in the moment - made for addicts of spontaneous discovery, who should not be left wanting by night’s end.
Where we’ve played.
Spirit of the Woods Folk Festival
Northern Natural Cider House and Winery
Minnehaha Brewhaha Music Festival
Onekama Summer Concert Series
Earthwork Harvest Gathering
Leelanau Uncaged Music Festival
The Little Fleet in Traverse City
The Hideout
… and countless late nights at Handstand preparing our next show for you.