BAND MEMBER BIO'S
JEFF STANGE
HAMOND ORGAN | VOCALS
(Organ Odyssey, Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir)
Originally an educated recording arts major turned rock n roll roadie, I am no stranger to the music scene. Growing up in the 70’s and 80’s, music was my passion, and band production was already in my wheel house. I developed my musical style from the golden years of rock n roll touring with such artists as the Grateful Dead, Jerry Garcia Band, Page and Plant, U2, Paul McCartney, and more!
While on tour with the Grateful Dead I found a new passion for the Hammond organ. That mighty jazz organ sound! As I traveled, I collected jazz organ recordings worldwide. What was the next step? I bought a 1963 Hammond A-102 in the early 90s. Soon I started playing and writing original songs.
I joined “Sing Napa Valley”, a local choir in Napa, singing in such great productions as "Carmina Burana" and Handel’s “Messiah”. This allowed me to really start developing my voice. During this time I also worked on developing my melting pot - jam - groove style, incorporating a large multi vocalist sound. A video of a choir with a Hammond organ drew my eye and soon after I joined the semiprofessional "Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir". This life changing experience singing with symphonies, rock stars, and or in the black church communities has allowed me to take my vocals and style to a whole new level. #grateful
All of these sounds, grooves, styles, and life experiences musically and personally make me who I am today. Come see the musical melting pot, come enjoy the musical odyssey!
JAy Wilcox
GUITARI | VOCALS
(Lovin' Dead, Like A Rose)
Jay is a musician who is deadicated to searching for the sound, uncovering notes and rhythms akin to the shared time and space. A vocalist and guitar player for bands; Like a Rose, Lovin Dead, Organ Odyssey, and The Super Secret Band Project. Jay also freelances live shows and studio sessions, and gives music lessons on occasion as well. You can see Jay perform in the San Fransico Bay Area.
Jay is primarily influenced by and focused on, the music of Jerry Garcia and the Grateful Dead.
ISA S. CHU
VOCALS
(Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir)
As a Chinese immigrant raised in Oakland, CA, my musical journey has been shaped by a diverse range of influences from my upbringing. From 50's pop and barbershop quartets to the Beatles, 80's Hong Kong pop music, Cantonese opera, and 60's musical movies, my musical palette was rich and varied. Early on, I learned to play the piano and discovered a love for 90's hip hop and R&B. This eventually led me to explore classical music and develop a deep appreciation for the technical skill required to sing opera.
Singing has always come naturally to me, leading me to join choirs in school, church, and college. Joining the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir (OIGC) in 2005 was a turning point. I've had incredible opportunities, performing at renowned venues like Paramount Theatre, Yoshi's Jazz Club, and Montreux Jazz Festival. Singing behind Sheléa at Davies Symphony Hall, being part of Super Bowl 50's official choir, and performing for MLB and NBA teams are unforgettable highlights. I've even sung with Barry Manilow at SAP Center and joined Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem at SF Outside Lands! I have also ventured into the world of session singing, lending my voice to numerous recordings. In 2022, I launched the Oakland Interfaith Kids Choir, where I have the joy of introducing choral concepts to children aged 5 to 11.
My passion lies in ensemble singing. The challenge of blending harmonies, creating counter melodies, and finding my place within a chord is absolutely delicious!
Connect with me:
www.instagram.com/icdiva
www.youtube.com/icdiva
www.soundcloud.com/icdiva
DAVE SOLON
DRUMS
(thelasttimetravelers, peopleofearthband)
Music has been a driving force and passion in my life for as long as I can remember. Over the past few decades drumming in many bands in the North Bay, I’ve come to be a seeker of the thrill that the energy of band and audience can create together. Music is magic. Healing magic. Whether playing to the song or going all out into improvisational space, I can’t get enough magic. “Shall we go, You and I, While we can” into a space and time of musical magic?