Somewhere between The Band, Stevie Wonder, and Earl Scruggs…..you will find Big Johnson and The Members. The Members are a rotating lineup of local and regional musicians, though at the core of the group are most of the members (no pun intended) of local bluegrass band and triangle favorite Old Habits. Its just a good excuse to get together every once in a while and indulge in a spontaneous musical smorgasbord.
Lin Peterson, also playing banjo and dobro in Old Habits, can be seen playing several different instruments while rockin with The Members. He lays the low end down on the Fender Jazz Bass, while also stepping up and ripping out some tasteful solos on the electric guitar, and has recently acquired a lap and pedal steel which enhances the bands sound on a few select tunes. Lin also plays with No Strings Attached, and sells used pencils when not on the road.
Playing the drums is Craig Thompson, who earns his living playing the upright bass in Old Habits, but is just as comfortable behind the drum kit which was his first instrument. Craig was born and raised in Charlotte, NC, and has played for almost fifteen years. Craig, or "Mule" as he is known in our circle, brings the pulsating feel of Chad Sexton and Mick Fleetwood to the groups rhythmic foundation. While he is keeping the beat for The Members, Craig sings lead with the quality you'll find in Gregg Allman, Levon Helm, and Steve Miller, and will even sneak a scorching harmonica solo in on you if you’re not careful. Craig is officially sponsored by UnderToad Clothing Company and is coming to a store near you soon.
Hank Smith, of Barefoot Manner fame, came on board with The Members after various collaborations with the boys in various bluegrass based groups including Old Habits and his own bluegrass supergroup No Strings Attached. His synthesizer banjo rig throws out mesmerizing sounds ranging from regular banjo sounds to vintage clavinova sounds all the way to mimicking Jamaican steel drums. Hanks flawless banjo work has been a great addition and unique touch to The Members sound.
Chadwick Johnson also plays guitar in Old Habits, and rounds out The Members sound coming in on electric guitar and bass. Chadwick, or “Big Johnson,” weaves in and out of the mix laying down the rhythm, lead, and slide guitar on his old Strat and singing the occasional vocal when needed. Chad and Lin hail from the town of Clinton, NC,
were they began playing together back in high school. They’re also proud to claim their hometown as the pork producing capital of the world.
“Cafe' Mars is without a doubt one of the top performing groups in the Triangle. They're very clever with their song choices ranging from jazz, pop, soul & and even retro! With their powerful vocals and amazing trumpeter, this band is a must see." --Gigi Thigpen - Jazz Entertainment
