This is "Java Monkey"! The band that keeps the audience moving to the beat and dancing to a combination of great originals mixed with classic R&B, funky instrumentals, blues, rock, soul, and some of their own trademark arrangements of well known songs that everyone likes!
The name Java Monkey refers to the fixation, some may say an almost addiction, to caffeine - and the one vice you choose not to give up. That urge to want more...yes, maybe another cup, just one more! Just like the band Java Monkey, itself, and the impulse to get hooked. You’ll want more, more, more......just keep it hot and keep it coming!


Steve McRay......His soulful voice and R&B style comes from the heart & his keyboard playing will make you stop and take notice. BACKGROUND: Recorded with Mose Jones, .38 Special, Ted Nugent, Meatloaf, Atlanta Rhythm Section, Joan Baez, Ben E. King, Jackson Brown, Francine Reed, Johnny Van Zant. Co-wrote song "Alien" for ARS. Tours in U.S., Europe, Australia, and Japan with .38 Special, Joan Baez, Francine Reed, and Ichiban Blues Artists. Songwriter & Composer.

 


Marvin Taylor.....A guitar style that’s been perfected with quality and passion. Marvin exudes taste, and plays with a polished sound that’s filled with emotion. BACKGROUND: Member of Mose Jones. Studio session player in Muscle Shoals, Memphis, Nashville, and Atlanta. U.S. and European tours with Francine Reed, and other Ichiban Records artists. Songwriter & Composer. W.C. Handy nominee for song "Been there, Done that", recorded by Francine Reed.

 

Michael Bastedo.....A sax and vocal style that’s fun to listen to and exciting to watch. Definitely a soulful player with ferocious energy and great chops...a driving force. BACKGROUND: Berklee College of Music. Studio session work in Atlanta and Seattle. Tours in U.S., Canada, and Europe with Dr. Hook, Bertie Higgins, Francine Reed, Trudy Lynn, Derrick Trucks. Composer and Graphic Artist.

 



John Holder.....Drums & Vocals. With a style that is funky and “in the pocket”,
John provides a launching pad of explosive rhythm to lock in the band and a perfect beat for dancing. BACKGROUND: Graduate of Berklee College of Music. Recording and touring with country band Atlanta, including hit single “Sweet Country Music.” Studio session work in Atlanta and Nashville. Owner of recording studio, engineer and producer of wide range of music from alternative rock to children’s albums. Tours in U.S. and Australia with Francine Reed.