Band Members
Lead Guitarist
Bill E. Dews
Guitarist
Bill started playing guitar in his early teens, picking out one or two string riffs! He took lessons for a short period, but the call of his friends and the ball diamond won out over practice and lessons! However, his love for music and the guitar never died. He continued to listen to records and tried to play the songs’ guitar parts by ear. After many years of working in the corporate world, he set a goal to play in a blues band after retirement. Ten years prior to retirement, he decided to start building his musical theory knowledge and guitar skills and started taking lessons again. He would say at this stage in life, he will never be a “shredder” and defines his style of soloing more along the lines of the “slow-hand.” This “slow-hand” approach to solos adds a soulful sound and feel to the band. Like most blues players, Bill has been inspired by legendary artists like BB King, Albert King, Howlin Wolf, and Stevie Ray Vaughan. More recently, he has been influenced by the young newcomer, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram. His blend of blues, jazz, and neo-soul creates unique and powerful solos and rhythms. It is impossible to pick a single artist or song as Bill’s favorite, so he submits Luther Allison’s “Bad Love” and Kingfish’s “Empty Promises” as ones that make the replay list often. He hopes to continue to hone his guitar skills as a member of the Stonecliff Blues Band.
Drummer
Robin Mock
Drums
Robin Mock is the dynamic drummer and occasional vocalist of the Stonecliff Blues Band, bringing a rich and diverse musical background to the group. Her journey began with the clarinet in middle school band, quickly expanding to the saxophone in high school. She then immersed herself in global rhythms, spending several years mastering Indian and African drums. Her passion for percussion led her to the snare drum, where she played in a marching pipe and drum band. A year ago, Robin took on the challenge of the drum kit and found her place with the Stonecliff Blues Band. Robin loves all genres of music, and counts BB King’s “The Thrill is Gone” as her favorite blues track. Her eclectic background, vocal contributions, and love for rhythm make her an integral part of the band’s soulful sound
Bass Guitar
Lou Capuano
Bassist
Lou Capuano is the bass player for the Stonecliff Blues Band, bringing five years of bass experience to the group. Growing up with a piano at home, Lou developed his musical ear early, learning to play songs by ear. Although he briefly took accordion lessons, he found his true passion with the guitar in his twenties, initially drawn to bluegrass music. His journey to the bass guitar was sparked by his admiration for jazz, where he became captivated by the instrument’s deep, rhythmic presence. Over time, Lou has written over a dozen original songs, reflecting his diverse musical influences. Among his favorite tracks are “Long Way There” by Little River Band and Neil Young’s “Harvest Moon.” In the blues, Lou finds particular joy in playing walking bass lines, adding a dynamic groove to the band’s sound.
Vocalist
Isaac Knight Jr
Lead Vocals
Isaac Knight Jr. is the vocalist and guitarist for The Stonecliff Blues Band. Although he’s only been playing guitar for three years, Isaac is a dedicated learner with a passion for the blues. He’s drawn to the genre for its distinctive sound, the way it makes you feel, and the stories told in the lyrics. Isaac’s favorite blues tracks include “Honest I Do” and “Baby What You Want Me to Do” by Lil’ Jimmy Reed, and his guitar influences are shaped by the legendary B.B. King. Combining his expressive vocals with a growing command of the guitar, Isaac brings energy and heart to every performance, making him a vital part of the band’s sound. .
Instrumentalist
Madelyn Quistorf
Multi-Instrumentalist
Madelyn Quistorf has been a performer in the local music scene since the mid 90s playing in various original and cover bands over the years. A multi-instrumentalist, Madelyn encourages and supports other musicians within the community via her private lesson studio which has been operating since 2007. As a true lover of blues and improvisation it only makes sense for Madelyn to be the director of the Stonecliff Blues Band. Having studied and taught guitar in the styles of blues, jazz and rock you can often hear her influences cut through the mix on leads and embellishments. From Robin Trower to Jimi Hendrix to the Texas blues of Chris Duarte you can bet Madelyn has a smile on her face with every note as she pays homage to her blues heros.
Phone
585-705-4477
Rochester, NY