MEET THE MUDDCATTS

John Mandell as Elvis
Lead Vocals, Rhythm Guitar

John Mandell was born in Central Texas June 29. He started singing at age 5 and was not "discovered" until 1999 by the Nix boys. After hearing his voice, they finally convinced him to join the Muddcatts and perform Elvis tunes. Johnny was always into music, though. His favorite band is Stevie Ray Vaughn and Double Trouble. He also likes Elvis. Favorite Elvis song…Suspicious Minds (which he does very well…). He got his brown belt in Tai Kwon Do at age 24. You can almost always find him with a Coca-Cola in his hand (his only “vice”) and probably eating a greasy hamburger (his favorite food). His dream is to play a major arena concert with the MuddCatts, with a full orchestra and backup singers. With his talent, we think that could very well happen. His favorite thing about performing is seeing the audience having a good time. His humble attitude, amazing voice, showmanship and striking resemblance to the “King” make him one of the top Elvis acts in the country.

Jared Shaw as Paul
Bass Guitar, Backup Vocals

Jared Shaw was born in Waco, Texas on February 16. After hearing Soundgarden and Collective Soul on the radio at the age of twelve, he knew he wanted to be a guitarist. After his brother decided that he too wanted to play guitar, Jared decided to take up the bass. After leaving high school, he briefly studied jazz at the local community college. Jared's favorite Beatles song is "I Want You (She's So Heavy)". When he's not playing music, you can often find him reading philosophy books that he doesn't quite comprehend. Next time you see him, say hello and offer to buy him his favorite Little Debbie cupcakes.

Mark Nix as John
Guitar, Backup/Lead Vocals

This co-leader of the Muddcatts has way more energy than the average person and has been that way since October 31. Mark was a star quarterback in high school but his first love was music. He went on to get a Bachelor of Science degree in Classical Music after spending years playing on his own. His influences range from B.B. King to Judas Priest so he can do it all. He is a perfectionist when it comes to playing and performing. Mark also loves deep-sea fishing and watching sports. His favorite team…Green Bay Packers (Bret Favre is his hero). Mark is a huge Beatles fan and respects the impact they made on modern music. He loves Sushi and Big Red soda. Loves performing and getting the audience up. Mark is married and his wife’s name is Regina. He is really into Star Wars. He is also an accomplished song writer and frequently wakes in the middle of the night to jot down song ideas. Keeping up with Mark is a full-time job.

Reno Tandy as Ringo
Drums

Reno is a native Texan, born August 15th. He attended school in central Texas and played snare in the marching band in High School. Obviously, he excelled at that and pursued additional percussion training in college. Reno enjoys working with computers and electricity when he is not performing. He has a very dry sense of humor and often contributes one liners that crack up everyone. Reno loves Dr. Pepper and Italian food. Reno's favorite Beatle tune is 'Tomorrow Never Knows'; Elvis tune, 'Promised Land'. Reno is a technician when it comes to music and usually has some sticks close by to practice his licks. Reno enjoys movies and is a fan of Star Wars, Lord of the Rings and action movies.

Jeremy Holmsley as George
Guitar, Keyboards, Lead/Backup Vocals

Jeremy Holmsley was born in Dublin, Texas on September 30th. After graduating Troy High School, he went on to attend Temple College majoring in piano performance. Even though both of his parents have careers coaching sports, Jeremy found his interests and talents were in music. With the full support of his parents, Jeremy has accomplished a great deal musically, even at his young age. He is an award winning composer and pianist who has performed in places such as: New York City, New Orleans, Las Vegas, Houston, Dallas, El Paso, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. A multi-instrumentalist, Jeremy is well known for his abilities to play “almost” any instrument. He has played bass, lead and rhythm guitars, keyboards, and percussion in numerous bands. Outside of the Muddcatts, he has also used his skills in the classical world. His background in classical music, mixed with his love for rock, and a taste of country, gives his music a very unique sound. Jeremy has performed with numerous local and regional touring bands. He has played everything from country and reggae, to rock and heavy metal. He has even performed as both “Paul” and “George” in different Beatles tribute bands. His biggest influences include: Boston, Coldplay, Chicago, David Bowie, Eric Clapton, Fleetwood Mac, Sheryl Crow, Alanis Morisette, and Modest Mouse.