Jacob describes his relationship with music as “a good old friend I have had since I was young.” He says, “I understand music well enough to make it sound good to others and music understands me.” These days, he finds himself playing music to solve the problem of hopelessness in a world of uncertainty. He desires to promote romanticism/ idealism through his music to improve our world, starting with the hearts and souls of those who listen. https://www.jacobphilipbenning.com/
Spike grew up in El Paso, TX, studied jazz at The University of North Texas, started The Spike Band in 2004, recorded three albums with them, joined the Coast Guard in 2008, continued playing music wherever he was stationed (Maine, NorCal, and New Orleans), and formed Awesome Hotcakes in 2014. He is a husband, a Dad, a part-time elementary school band director, a songwriter/performer and he tries to write poetry. Some of his biggest influences include Ray Charles, Miles Davis, Van Morrison, Cleanhead Vinson, Gatemouth Brown, Lightnin Hopkins and Albert Ayler. Spike likes his coffee cold, black, and made with chicory. https://awesomehotcakes.com/
