About
Moontucky Risin started out 6 years ago from a musically chemical bond between singer/songwriter Jason (Josiah) Wiley and Drummer extraordinaire Aaron Luke. Jason and Aaron were from the same hometown of Lafayette Indiana, but never knew of each other until their fated paths crossed in San Diego, California. Both new from the first time playing together that their styles would be linked for years to come. Both were completely dedicated to taking time to hone skills and really let their musicianship and songwriting evolve into something that was worth letting others hear. The most important thing to both artists was simply patience, for they knew that something special was happening, and did not want to rush it. For Jason and Aaron the goal was to not be the typical radio band thrown together by corporate execs looking to make a fast buck. This music would be worked on until vocal chords, fingers, arms and legs bled. The music would be highly original, and would spark a movement in the years to come.
Ryan Burke showed up as a talented and well-known master percussionist from the Austin Texas Scene. He came to one of the shows when Moontucky Risin was formerly called “elliotness” - wearing overalls and a tie-dye no less. He instantly fell in love with the organic groove sound - and we knew right away he was a perfect fit. He joined immediately, and filled in the gaping hole that provides true texture and movement in all of Moontucky’s Songs.
The foundation was set, now we needed the accent pieces to complete this wonderful sound. Dana Spaulding transplants to CA and starts playing keys with us for a period of a few months. The sound was great, the energy great, but something just wasn’t right. Dana left the band to focus on his new business, only to be back a few months later and this time taking on the role of lead guitarist. Dana’s guitar playing can only be described as “smooth.” He brings the classic rock and all-time great guitar sounds to the band, all the while filling in the holes. All of his guitar skills have helped shift the bands sound in a purely courageous and beautiful way.
The 2 newest members to MTR are Jay Lauterwasser on Bass and Rob Matzker on the Keys. Both players come to us by way of St. Louis, Missouri. We originally met Jay while looking for a new bassist. From the first jam we knew Jay was the missing piece to the rhythm section. Jay provides that all-important pocket feeling that only TRUE bass players with a solid understanding of their instrument can. Rob (a long-time friend of Jay’s) sat in on an informal jam session, and we all felt an immediate connection to his tasteful harmonic additives. The rest as they say is “history.”
Moontucky Risin is dedicated to bringing the audience along a musical journey filled with thought-provoking lyrics and organic grooves. The music and lyrics are highly original and will take you from classic rock riffs to intricate psychedelic jams; bluegrass to fusion; 3-minute tunes to half an hour epics. We look to expand your mind and soul.
