The Marion Drexler Band - Bio
The band consists of Don Maitland, electric bass; Brian Jones, lead guitar; and Jonathan Ison, drums. They are more than capable of keeping up with their
dynamic leader, Marion Drexler. These guys provide background harmonies on most songs, adding to the richness of the band's sound. With his vocals and his
versatile and tasty guitar playing, Brian Jones brings a high level of professionalism to the band. Jonathan's mastery of the kit and percussion adds an
authentic feel to the broad palette of music the band plays. As well, special guest musicians join the group when budgets and venue size permit to spice
things up!
Marion Drexler
To say Marion Drexler's voice is versatile
and dynamic is only the beginning.
Her sound gives a tip of the hat to
Grace Slick and Janis Joplin,
but is definitely her own.
Marion's in-your-face Pop/Rock style will
drag you out of your seat and
onto the dance floor.
If you don't move, you're already dead.
Yet her ballad renditions will
send shivers down your spine.
Marion's voice can croon so smoothly and
yet deliver all the power a tune needs.
Now a budding songwriter as well as an
accomplished rhythm guitarist,
Marion performs as the leader of
"The Marion Drexler Band."
Her voice has been heard in various
venues, from clubs, folk and
blues festival stages, on up to
Toronto's Downtown Sheraton Hotel.
Don Maitland
Don has been involved in live music for many years. Initially a drummer, then a rhythm guitarist, he now holds the bassist position.
Brian Jones
Brian brings a wonderful versatility to the band with his dazzling lead guitar work and vocals. Country, Rock, Blues, R&B — it doesn't matter, he's
right there. Brian says he owes his musical career to the guitar teachings of his father who once said, "Brian, those are the only three chords you'll ever
have to know."
Jonathan Ison
Jonathan is a good friend who has sat in with us numerous times over the years, but has now joined the band on a permanent basis. He has exceptionally
broad musical experience which adds an authentic flavour to the wide variety of music the band delivers. Jon just flat-out rocks!
Musical Friends and Mentors
Richard Thornton
A frequent very special guest is Richard Thornton, our good friend and saxophone player with the Jack DeKeyser Blues Band. Richard ranks among the top blues
sax men in Canada. Hearing Richard play is a special treat indeed! He's seen here on a recent gig.
Steve Suekey
Steve, a lead guitarist, comes to us via the jam band that hosts the open mic events. He brings many years of experience and a strong country flavour to his playing.
Sonny Milne
Sonny Milne, seen here at a recent gig, has helped us out on drums. Sonny's history echoes Canadian Rock and Roll history, having worked with Robbie Lane and
the Disciples, Ronnie Hawkins, Sweet Blindness and David Wilcox, among many others. He has toured with Loretta Lynn and currently holds the drum chair for
Canadian music legends Little Caesar and the Consuls.
Dave Lyon
Dave Lyon is a drummer with the Legion Jam Band and a long time musical friend. Dave lived for many years on Cape Breton Island where he honed his drumming skills with the likes of Matt Minglewood.
Bruce MacNeil
Bruce moved back to Ontario this spring after spending a number of years in British Columbia. He brings a folky roots style to his playing and is a strong
singer/songwriter.
Bryce Bates
Bryce Bates, the rocking math teacher, is well known for his pyrotechnics on the fretboard.
In Memory
Paul Ledger
Paul Ledger (1951 - 2007): our friend and drummer.
Perhaps my time seemed all too brief
Don't lengthen it now with undue grief
Lift up your heart and share with me
God wanted me now, He set me free
Eddie Baltimore
Eddie Baltimore (1949 - 2004): musician, teacher and friend, in the studio with Garth Hudson of The Band.
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