Stringbenders to play at Sisters pub

Sisters music lovers, mark your calendars for Wednesday, November 12.

The "Stringbenders" will play at Three Creeks Brewing Co. from 8 to 10 p.m.

Many local area music lovers know the "Moon Mountain Ramblers," and what an eclectic show they put on. Matt "Mai" (pronounced "May") Hyman, the lead vocalist for the Ramblers, has put together a side venture he calls the Stringbenders.

"Some gigs just don't always work for the whole band," says Hyman, "but I still want to do some pickin' and singin', so I'll rustle up some of my music buddies. This time, Joe Schulte will be playing upright bass, Freddie Gateley will be playing guitar and banjo, and I will sing, play the guitar and dobro."

Matt says the Stringbenders do a mix of bluegrass and blues, and if this reporter's experience with the Ramblers is any gauge, look for a very entertaining mix of original work and a few covers with a unique twist.

When he's not out twangin', Matt teaches music and works at Music Makers in Bend.

Joe Schulte, the regular bass player for the Ramblers, also teaches music at his Bend studio, "String Theory Music."

When Freddie Gately's not busy with his three kids, he performs with his own rock 'n' roll band and "plays at church quite a bit."