Drawing its musical influences from American roots music — rhythm & blues, soul, Motown, boogie woogie and swing — Eight to the Bar is known for its outstanding instrumentalists and sophisticated musical and vocal arrangements, highlighted by a female vocal trio.With the support of independently-produced albums and videos, Eight to the Bar has cultivated a large, enthusiastic following that has put them in clubs from Maine to Miami. Their rigorous performing schedule (approximately 200 dates per year), has included opening spots for the Manhattan Transfer, Robert Cray, Neil Young, and Roy Orbison. Eight to the Bar is:
Cynthia Lyon – Keyboards, vocals. The band’s founder, Cynthia is 8TTB’S primary songwriter and arranger. She has also played with Amyl and the Icons and The Dirty Blondes of New York City.
Todd Lyon – A vocalist in the band’s original lineup of 1975, Cynthia’s sister Todd rejoined 8TTB recently after singing with several West Coast bands, notably Baby Buddha of San Francisco.
Collin Tilton – Tenor and alto saxophones. Best known for his sax and flute playing on Van Morrison’s million selling Moondance album, Collin also played with Etta James on the Rolling Stones’ 1978 U.S. Tour. He has worked with a number of regional bands, notably the Shaboo All Stars.
Wayne June – Drums, vocals. Wayne’s hard-edged drumming and three-and-a-half octave vocal range have been heard in several well-known New England bands, including The Riverside Drivers.
Chris Vachon – Guitar, vocals. Chris’ bluesy lead guitar has been featured by Roomfull of Blues, and B. Willie Smith; as a bassist he has performed with Duke Robillard and the Pleasure Kings.
Ayessa Rodies – Vocals, tenor saxophone. Ayessa starred in the Canadian stage production of The Rocky Horror Picture Show. She has also played with the Montreal based, all original jazz fusion band Aricana.
Michael Corsini- Bass Guitar, vocals. A veteran bass player and teacher, Mike is best known for his dazzling work with the Magill-LaPine jazz quartet.
