Time:7 p.m.

Cover:$15

 http://freebyrdband.ca/

Free Byrd is Alberta’s only Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute band and we started from our love of classic Lynyrd Skynyrd as well as the current lineup and their new God and Guns album. Free Byrd has had amazing chemistry right from the first jam session which has continued as it has evolved. We are excited to be able to bring our live version of Lynyrd Skynyrd to Alberta.

Lead singer and founder, W Van Zant is a true blue Albertan, born and raised in the Edmonton area. His musical influences were primarily country, rock and blues and from the age of 17 he sang in several local bands. His love of Lynyrd Skynyrd inspired him to put together FREE BYRD, a tribute to the timeless music of Classic Skynyrd and the late, great Ronnie Van Zant.  Right down to the point of singing in bare feet, W Van Zant strives for authenticity in replicating Ronnie’s work and mannerism and holds him in high respect.  His vision and strength as a leader is the driving force behind the inception and developing success of FREE BYRD.

Backup vocalist, Sage Rhoades developed a love for music very early in life, and her musical roots were strongly influenced by gospel music. She started song writing at the age of 12 and continued writing and singing in various events during the years while raising a family. Currently along with enjoying singing backup with FREE BYRD, Sage continues to write music of her own and hopes to record and release a solo CD sometime this year.

Rhythm/lead guitarist, Rob O’Brien was born in Prince George and his passion for music started at a young age.  A self-taught guitarist, Rob listens to and plays a variety of tunes from Metallica to Bob Segar to, of course, Lynyrd Skynyrd.  Rob has been playing for over ten years, writes his own music, has dabbled in bass and is also a solid drummer.  His pride and joy (other than his Gibson) is a knockoff Ibanez that he built himself from scratch.  Rob brings his passion and talent to every show and his generous spirit is his trademark.

Drummer, Larry Smith was born in Toronto and has played drums from the age of 9. He has studied drumset , mallet and Latin percussion through junior and senior high and performed in stage bands , orchestra & jazz combos while attending school.  Larry was a member of DCI (drum corps) for 2 years on timpani and snare, studied drumset  under John DeWaal in ‘89/’90 and performed in a Toronto youth production of “ Grease”. Larry was a member of Ray Meyers R&B Band ’91 Vancouver and played in local rock and blues bands in Calgary before joining FREE BYRD in July 2010. Larry’s steady manner and smiling personality adds stability to the group and is someone that every member of FREE BYRD can count on.

Lead guitarist, Leo Lanzalone hails from Brantford, ON and moved to Calgary in 2002.  He has played lead guitar over the last 30 years in several bands in Ontario and Calgary.  Leo’s penchant for detail and his skill as lead guitarist contribute greatly to the authenticity of FREE BYRD’s tribute to Lynyrd Skynyrd.

Fauuex Daniel has been singing and performing ever since she can remember. She has been songwriting since she was about 10. Fauuex’s first performance was in church, and she gradually worked her way to different venues. Fauuex has written and recorded 3 albums, and is currently working on a 4th solo CD. Fauuex always puts her best face forward and without fail brings her good nature and a smile to every FREE BYRD show.

Bass player, Rev Mike Kruse started playing the bass at the age of 13.He has played bass in the Calgary cover band scene for the last 10 years in the bands !Bang and Mr. Furious.  Prior to that, Rev Mike has played in numerous original and cover acts.  Rev Mike’s skill and experience on bass bring strength to FREE BYRD. Mike’s assortment of hats, inspired by Leon Wilkinson, along with his dry sense of humor bring tons of extra character to the FREE BYRD show.

Keyboard player, Peter Riccioni is a Calgarian with his roots in Ontario.  Peter grew up in Toronto and has 25 years experience on keyboards, playing everywhere from Italian bistros, weddings, hockey games to the CMA’s. Peter is one of the newest members of FREE BYRD and valued for his keyboard abilities and his sense of humor.

Sound technician, Clayton Peters, started his music career early. Clayton began DJing at the age of 13. He eventually landed a sales position at Mothers Music and worked his way up to managing the pro audio division for 5 years.  Learning a great deal about studio recording, Clayton started recording solo singer/song writer projects at his home studio. He also ventured into live sound and established himself as a reliable and thorough live sound technician. Clayton currently sits as Axe Music’s top salesman and is co-owner of Perfect Fifth recording studio which opened in 2011. Clayton is also a partner in Jester Audio where he manages sound and lighting for live bands and large corporate events year round.  Clayton is an extremely valuable member of FREE BYRD with his extremely personable nature along with his talent on the mixing board. Clayton is invaluable and greatly assists us in achieving the memorable sound of Classic Skynyrd.