Between the pickin', the grinnin', the drinkin', the partyin', the "all nighters" and "three dayers", October Road has chalked up a resume that puts most bands in the Midwest to shame. They've earned a reputation as one of the hardest working and hardest partying groups in the region, and that's putting it lightly! If you come to an October Road show you better bring your drinking hat and cab fair, because people tend to raise a little hell when the boys start throwing down their unique, groove oriented approach to modern country.
The stats speak for themselves. . . . . . . Two straight record breaking years at WeFest, two hellacious 6 night stands at the North Dakota State Fair, and the featured opening act for Jon Randall, the Lo Cash Cowboys, Alvarado Roadshow, Billy Currington, Joe Nichols, Chris Cagle, Trick Pony, Little Texas, Rockie Lynne, Diamond Rio, Halfway To Hazard and SheDaisy. On July 4th, 2006 they headlined a concert that drew 15,000 in attendance in Brainerd, MN and when it comes to radio, they’ve been involved in countless media events with K102 (2006 CMA Station of The Year), Wild 99, Froggy 99, B93, and Bob95, including headlining Wild 99’s “Hometown Tour” this summer as well as their 2006 CMA party which boasted 1500 in attendance. Add over 600 shows in a little over 3 years, including such venerable locales as the Wild Horse Saloon, Ralph Engelstad Arena, The Venue, the House of Rock, 70+ Street Dances and Fairs, and of course two critically acclaimed and solid selling albums, plus a DVD documentary/concert called "The Other Side" and you’ve got a band that’s quickly raising eyebrows across the US!
October Road is anchored by the exceptional drumming skills of Marc Westby. Adding the low end to the mix, and the high end to the vocals, is Joe Thiele whose early experience playing in alt-rock bands adds a unique approach to the usually low-key drum/bass parts associated with country music. Dave Jopp brings his lightning fast fingers and silky smooth voice to the band by way of Steve Vai, Stevie Ray Vaughn, and Boston, again offering yet another different approach to country music. Finally lead vocalist and songwriter Shawn Smalley lends his powerful vocals, steady rhythm guitar, and insightful lyrics to this incredible group of musicians.
The band recently signed with The Music Works of Minneapolis, MN and is currently working on expanding its touring area to include all of the Midwest. 2008 is already nearly completely booked and dates have already come in for 2009. Additionally, work has begun in earnest on their highly anticipated 3rd album!
