Heidi Nirk is a force of nature unleashed on stage, a vocal whirlwind that takes you on a journey of a raw, unfiltered soul. Her voice is like a rollercoaster - terrifying, exhilarating and totally unpredictable. Imagine a voice that blends the fiery passion of Janis Joplin, the soulful richness of Bonnie Raitt, and the timeless swagger of Bessie Smith. That's Heidi Nirk. And it's not just about comparisons – this woman has a sound all her own, a musical hurricane that will leave you breathless, awe-struck, and maybe even a little teary-eyed.
From the moment she hits the stage, Heidi captivates you. Her dynamic performance style is pure electricity, her power and range a testament to a lifetime poured into her music. She sings with grit and vulnerability, a kaleidoscope of emotions that paints vivid pictures with every note. This is the kind of music that demands to be experienced live, a testament to the raw power of human expression.
Photo by Kerry Quinn Photography
Paul Tomasello (Bass Guitar)
A native Bostonian, Paul relocated to Rhode Island in 1988. In his 40+ years as a professional musician, he has toured and recorded with many bands including the Estes Boys, Little Frankie and the Premiers, Roomful of Blues, Neal and the Vipers, and the Fathoms. He has also performed with greats such as Stevie Ray Vaughn, Hubert Sumlin, Eric Clapton, Dr. John, Otis Rush, and B.B. King.
Photo by Kerry Quinn Photography
Rob Nelson (lead guitar) has been a mainstay of the New England Blues scene since the late 1960s, playing in the Blue Lights, Loaded Dice, Blueswagon, Sugar Ray Norcia, and more recently with Roger Ceresi's All Stars. Tours in the U.S., Canada, and Europe with Lazy Lester (Excello Records), Wild Child Butler, and Roomful of Blues presented an opportunity to hone his musical skills in the company of some blues greats. Rob also plays as a sideman with Darrel Nulisch, James Montgomery, Dennis McCarthy, and The Superchief Trio among others. Through years of experience, Rob has developed his own voice in many styles of playing, including retro-soul, jazz standards, and honky tonk. Through his affability and swingin' style, Rob brings listeners along into a world he obviously enjoys.
Photo by Kerry Quinn Photography
Charlie Huntington (Piano/Organ) has been tickling the ivories since the tender age of eight and spent his upbringing in the church being influenced greatly by his mother's love of music as the church organist. Charlie was drawn to many different instruments, but when his father gifted him a Farfisa organ for his birthday one year, it was pretty obvious which he preferred. Charlie played with Killer Kane & the Blue FO's since 1972 only to recently retire from the ensemble (what a tenure!). Charlie also played with the Bob Colson Band, which opened for Muddy Waters in 1978, and Eric Burdon in 1979. Charlie also led band Jewel City Blues with James "Killer" Kane on harp, and has played with Josh Barber Band, Johnny Edwards Band, Straight Pipes Band, and Calamity Brain.
Photo by Kerry Quinn Photography
DYLAN BARBRICK - Baritone Saxophone
& Merchandise Manager
Dylan Barbrick is a current member of the Rhode Island Philharmonic Symphonic Winds Junior Orchestra & Rhode Island Philharmonic Junior Big Band Jazz Ensemble, and has also played alongside with
other RIPYWE students and alumni with the 88th Army Band at 2024 Veteran's Day Event. In addition to HNB, Dylan has also played alongside his mentor, Christopher Depot, with T.J. & the Campers, and marched and played alongside Catnip Junkies in the 2024 Bristol Porch Fest Parade.