Bios
Julia Schlippert
Vocals
Julia is known for her dynamic presence and captivating voice. With over 20 years of experience in the music industry, Julia has built an impressive career that includes chart-topping achievements and extensive live performance history. She has been recognized in the Top 40 Dance Charts of Billboard Magazine, a testament to her impact on the dance music scene.
Julia’s journey has included a significant milestone as a signed artist with Blanco y Negro Records, where she gained valuable exposure and honed her craft. She has also become a well-known figure in the Portland music scene, captivating audiences at a variety of venues throughout the city. Her powerful voice and stage charisma have made her a favorite among both local and national audiences.
In addition to her local success, Julia has graced the stage at some of the most prestigious festivals in the region, including the Portland Blues Festival and The Bite, where she showcased her ability to connect with large crowds and create unforgettable performances. Her extensive experience and passion for music continue to inspire and elevate the sound of her group, solidifying her place as one of Portland's top vocalists.
Dany Oakes
Guitar/vocals
Dany picked up a guitar for the first time at age 14. Not having any formal music lessons at the time did not prevent him from testing his performance skills by playing air guitar with friends to mimic his music idols.
“I started a band before any of us in the group could really play”, Dany said with a chuckle. “But, it was evident to me early on that I had a passion for music and it’s been an integral part of me ever since!”
Majoring in music, Dany studied classical guitar, jazz guitar and composition in New York and on the west coast. His proficiency in music theory, song writing, composition and arranging encompasses rock, blues, folk, country, funk, soul R&B and classical genres. His career in music has taken him on tours through Romania, Hungary, Austria, Germany and the Netherlands as well as the United States.
Settling in the Portland metro area in Oregon, Dany currently teaches guitar, bass and ukelele at Five Star Guitars in Beaverton. Seasonal projects also include writing and musical instruction for Camp Amp bands – an opportunity for young students to develop valuable skills, techniques, discipline and self-confidence in a creative environment. As an accomplished musician and experienced performer, combined with a kind disposition and natural ability, Dany has been teaching music professionally for over 30 years.
In addition to performing as a solo artist, session work and recording with the likes of Morgan Locklear, Dany’s extensive musical projects have included performing and recording with the bands Coolbeans, Server-X, 23 Window, Spittin’ Feathers, The Climb, and Bev & the Boys. Since 2019, Dany has been a member of the band Macey Gard, lending his talents on slide, acoustic and electric guitars, vocals and song writing.
Corey "Mitch" Mitchell
Guitar/vocals
Mitch is a seasoned musician and a founding member of his current project Stormy Creek Co. as well as former groups Freight Train Jaine and the renowned Macey Gard Band. With a passion for music that spans his entire life, Mitch's journey included being a member of the successful music trio Carlyle (2001-2008). During their run, Carlyle’s hit rendition earned the distinction of being voted "Best Song" on a national double CD that went on to win "Best Compilation Album of the Year" at the 2008 Portland Music Awards, where Mitch and his band also performed.
As a talented songwriter, Mitch has written and recorded music that has featured national artists, cementing his place in the industry. His Latin-influenced song Tequila & Lime features an impressive lineup of musicians, including National Fiddle Champion Aarun Carter, percussionist Todd Strait, and Portland legend Dub DeBrie.
In his holiday-inspired work, Mitch recorded Christmas Blues, which showcases the soulful vocals of Portland Blues artist LaRhonda Steele, alongside the smooth saxophone of world-renowned Renato Caranto.
A recent remake of Christmas Blues recorded by his former group Macey Gard Band has become a beloved seasonal anthem, regularly playing on Portland's KISN FM each December.