biographical info
Mr. Chill and The Witnesses is the name for Kelly "Mr. Chill" Hoppe's new band. Mr. Chill was a member of Canada's Big Sugar from 1994 to 2003. He returns to his 'roots' in this setting, melding blues, country, bluegrass, rock 'n' roll and folk into his own unique expression. Mr. Chill steps out front as lead vocalist as well as displaying his prowess on harmonica, among other instruments. The Windsor ON-based group features Greg Cox on guitar, mandolin, banjo and vocals, Josh Zalev on bass and vocals, and Luke Pelotte on drums. The debut CD "Mr. Chill's Cold Testament" was co-produced by Patrick Ballantyne and former Big Sugar frontman Gordie Johnson. It was mixed in Spicewood TX at Willie Nelson's famed Pedernales Studio.
lineup
Kelly "Mr. Chill" HOPPE Lead vocalist, harmonica, saxophone, guitar
Greg COX Guitar, Mandolin, Banjo Vocals
Josh ZALEV Bass, Vocals
Luke PELOTTE Drums
influences
Bill Monroe
Billy Lee Riley
Carl Story
Junior Wells
Smiley Lewis