The Groove Cats bring their neo blues fusion sound to the Hampton History Museum’s monthly concert series on Wednesday, September 19, 6-8 pm.
The Groove Cats is comprised of four musically driven individuals whose sound is surpassed only by their desire to make music. Their eclectic sound is based on the blues tradition, but embellished to create a more innovative and expanded interpretation of the music. Original material reflects a diverse mixture of styles and influences that include a fusion of rock, funk and jazz in addition to the blues.
The members of The Groove Cats are seasoned professionals in the music industry, their experience spanning years of music both locally, and coast to coast. The Groove Cats are: Heather Pabalate, lead vocals; Ron Hanchin, bass, vocals, founding member; Alan Baisley, guitar, vocals; and Ivan Evans, drums.
Visit The Groove Cats!
Heather Pabalate, Lead Vocals
Heather’s versatility in the vocal arena allows for a wide range of musical styles to include jazz, rhythm & blues and rock as well as the blues. Her experience includes over 20 years of performing with various entertainment agencies and production companies as well as being lead vocalist for R&R Band, Vess Russ Project and Vertical Circle. Heather has had the opportunity to share the stage with the likes of Kim Waters, Angela Bofill and Ike Cole. She also spent several years as a studio vocalist, which resulted in a self-titled CD in 1994. Heather brings her brand of sultry yet funky lead vocals to the band in addition to having strong background vocal abilities.
Ron Hanchin, Bass, Vocals, founding member
Formerly with the Blues Cats, Galaxy, Crimson Velvet, and What Next among others, Ron has been playing bass professionally in a variety of bands for over 30 years and has shared the stage with many nationally known acts – Aerosmith, Three Dog Night, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Ruth Brown, the Buddy Guy Band, L’il Ed And the Blues Imperials, Kenny Neal, Leon Redbone, and Joanna Conner to name a few. His band the Blues Cats won acclaim from their CD “It Ain’t Easy” which was released in 1993. After playing in several bands that stretched his musical styles, he has decided to return to the blues, “Because it’s just more fun!”
Alan Baisley, Guitar, Vocals
A veteran guitarist, singer, composer and music teacher, Alan was classically trained at the age of 11 in England, and has been playing his chosen instrument ever since. He is accomplished in most every style, but favors Blues, Rock and Jazz. Alan played lead guitar for area favorite ForPlay until leaving to further a Gospel recording career performing on and co-producing several CD’s. He has his own band, ADB Overture which features his wife Debra on vocals. When The Groove Cats put out the call for a new guitarist, Alan came to the rescue and joined the band. As he puts it, he is now free to pursue a long awaited desire to explore a rock/blues format, one of his favorite styles.
Ivan Evans, Drums
Ivan, better known as “The Hit Man” lays down his signature “in the pocket” groove and beat that dives the sound of The Groove Cats. Originally from Baltimore, He brings over 30 years of professional musicianship to the group. Formerly a member of the Blues Cats and Crimson Velvet, Ivan has also played with other well-known local artists including Gator Almond & the Spice of Life, Black White Blues and Girls Night Out.
Hampton History Museum
Held in the museum’s Great Hall on the third Wednesday of the month, the “Front Porch” Music Series presents different genres of music that have shaped the American soundscape and influenced talent in Hampton Roads’ vibrant music scene. Admission is free to museum members, $5 for non-members. Doors open at 5:30 pm. Seating and capacity are limited.
The Hampton History Museum is located at 120 Old Hampton Lane in Downtown Hampton. There is free parking in the garage across the street from the museum. For more information call 757-727-1102 or visit www.HamptonHistoryMuseum.org.
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Photo credit: Wendy Podmenik Darugar