Fall 2011:

Thanks for stopping by :-) Most of you know that since my move back to Arizona two and a half years ago, The Offbeats have been appearing only once a month at McP's with various lineups - those musician friends we have known for years that enjoy getting together for a fun evening of music and companionship have all become part of the band. I am grateful for my lasting friendships with George Lewis (drums), Doug Harrison (guitar), Andy Tirpak (guitar), Thom Schlesinger (drums), Gene Rochambeau (guitar), Randy Hoffman (drums), Guy Harris (keyboards), Ted Best (drums), Tom Allen (guitar & harmonica), Gary Lehmann (guitar & harmonica), Hal Cope (guitar), Duke Bushong (drums), John Sisson (guitar), Mel Vernon (guitar), Ryan Dunn (guitar) and Wally Gordon (drums). They have all been instrumental in keeping The Offbeats alive. Thank you, everyone!

To my brothers Doug & George - Nothing ever takes the place of family :-)

George has been with AM Forever now for 2 and a half years ( AM Forever ) and I encourage you all to support them. Andy and Thom are key members of Laguna ( Laguna ) and if you enjoy exceptional classic rock, check them out! Gene, Guy and Randy hail from The Noise Boys ( The Noise Boys ), a fine classic rock band representing East County. Gary Lehmann works both as a solo act and with The Legends ( The Legends ), San Diego's BEST Doo Wop and Motown Show Band. Tom Allen works with Blue Current ( Blue Current ) and is an exceptionally talented song writer. Mel Vernon is leader of The Orbitz ( The Orbitz ) and an ace guitarist! John Sission was also with The Legends and I've never known anyone who works harder at nailing arrangements than he does, especially vocals. Ted Best and I go way back to the early 90's with the bands Deuce Coupe & Zachary Smith (Doug was also a member of Zachary Smith). Ted is a wonderul drummer and great friend. I first encountered Wally Gordon on the same day I met Doug, both were performing with a band called Backtrack and I was called to sub with them. Wally Rocks! Ryan Dunn is Doug's partner at Toadworks ( ToadworksUSA ) and a fine guitarist. He and Doug have also hosted this website since the beginning.

Stay tuned! The Offbeats may be spread all over the map, but I suspect the ride isn't over. Whatever the lineup, we aim to please and look forward to sharing our brand of music with you when ever and where ever we can!

All the best,

John