The Festival House Band

The Festival House Band contains what might be sheepishly described as an embarrassment of talent. The collection of musicians assembled to back headline artists travelling without a band is capable of performing almost anywhere they choose, and many of them have fronted their own bands.

Part of their success comes from experience. Amos Garrett has played with the best of the best. His guitar has graced more than a few hit albums, and he's toured with a stellar collection of performers such as: Paul Butterfield, Stevie Wonder, Bonnie Raitt, Long John Baldry, Emmylou Harris and Maria Muldaur.

Rusty Reed has long been one of Alberta's premier harmonica players. He's led his own band, comprises a third of Triple Threat, and performed with such blues greats as: Sunnyland Slim, Yank Rachell, Spencer Davis, Otis Rush, Long John Baldry, and many more.

Dave Babcock's sax has been a staple on the Edmonton music scene. Many will be familiar with the Jump Orchestra and his proficiency and flair for R&B and jazz.

Ron Casat makes the trip to Edmonton from Calgary, and brings his keyboards with him. He's a singer/songwriter in his own right, and has also played the Festival behind James Keelaghan, Diamond Joe White and Margaret Christl. He plays for Garrett as a member of the EH Team, as well as with their swing-jazz band called the Cold Club of Canada.

Kit Johnson's bass has helped anchor the Festival House Band for more than a few years. A singer/songwriter, he co-wrote Lover of Mine, Alannah Myles' 1992 hit single, which also won SOCAN's Canadian Song of the Year. He's toured with Chris de Burgh, David Wilcox and Murray McLauchlan.

Bohdan Hluszko is unable to be a part of the House Band this year, but is being replaced by the equally talented Tom Moon.