Rob Loar(vocals, guitar, trumpet) From the rich baritone of Johnny Cash to the lilting falsetto of James' "Laid", Rob has it covered. His smooth vocal syle on country ballads and those quirky 80's new wave tunes make him truly the man of 1000 voices. And though he can be pretty self-depracating when it comes to his guitar chops, his trumpet playing adds that extra bit of sizzle (or should we say fizzle?) that a band with a name like Soda could certainly put to good use.
Erik Swanson(vocals, bass guitar) A self-confessed (and now recovering) former bass guitar "shredder", Erik won several local bass contests early in his career. Those early pyrotechnics have since evolved into a stlye that is passionate yet still very precise. His playing has graced the stage with many favorite local artists, including Cathy Richardson and Scottish McMillian. Erik also displays his evocative vocal talents with Soda on covers by Tom Petty, Dave Matthews and John Mayer.
Jeff Decker (drums, percussion, vocals) A drummer's drummer, Jeff brings his considerable chops and experience to the band. As a teacher at the area's premier drum shop "The Drum Pad", he stresses a substance over style approach that truly anchors the Soda rythm section. And his fundamental sense of good taste has made him a "first call" session drummer for many of Chicago's finest jazz ensembles.
Pat O'Donnell (vocals, guitar) When audiences first hear Pat sing "Come Sail Away" and other Styx favorites, their jaws will very often drop as they wonder if it's live or Memorex. But much more than a Dennis DeYoung clone, Pat and his rich tenor excel on tunes by Bon Jovi, The Outfield, Fallout Boy, and many others. And he's no slouch on the guitar. His muscular style evokes the passion and attitude found in the great rock solos of any (and every!) generation.
Do you want the best of everything? 80's. 90's. Whatever it takes. Soda is like an ipod for your soul. If you like variety in your life and in your music, you're gonna love Soda. Four experienced musicians capture the heart and soul of one of the most diverse playlists you'll find anywhere. What's your flavor? It's everything all the time with Soda. Johnny Cash to Dave Matthews, from Styx to John Mayer, Soda can do it all. Three lead singers, each with distinctive styles, bring authenticity to all your favorite songs. And the possibilities are endless. Check it out: Classic Rock, 80's New Wave, Country, Hip-Hop, Reggae, Rap, Alternative, Motown--the list goes on and on. Compare the Soda sound to anything else in the area and you'll agree. No artificial flavors here--it's just pure sonic sweetness.
See you guys Saturday night! McNally's is a blast and Soda makes it even better. Bringing some friends out that haven't seen you guys yet, I know it's gonna be a great show, always is with Soda!!
