Showdown July 15

July 15 | 6 – 10 p.m.
Moody’s on 15 E. Mill Street
Ticket price includes one free drink ticket

Meet Duane Wriston, Jeff Stephens and Pat Maule, the Showdown band. These well-versed musicians all have many years’ experience playing for different clubs, venues, events, and private parties throughout Arizona.

Duane grew up in the small mining town of Ajo, Az. He picked up the guitar at an early age and played in bands throughout his high school years. In 1982, he and his band “Nightrider,” moved to Phoenix. A year later the band won the Wrangler Country Showdown, representing Arizona in the national talent competition. In late1990, Duane was approached by the Herndon brothers to join their band that performed at Handlebar J restaurant and bar, one of the most famous country venues in AZ. Thirty-two years later he is still in the band. Over the years, Duane has enjoyed playing with a long list of recording artists and celebrities including Vince Gill, Blake Shelton, Toby Keith, Lyle Lovett, Huey Lewis, Keifer Southland, and Jimmy Fallon, to name a few.

Jeff grew up in St. Louis, went to Catholic school and got a stern education from the Nuns there. After playing in several local bands, he landed a gig with a band that did all original music called Pavlov’s Dog. The band had a record deal but saw limited success. So, Jeff took off on down the road playing in several bands and backing recording artists. After a stint in Nashville, he ended up in Arizona. Today he is a very in demand musician in the valley. If Jeff can’t rock ’em, they can’t be rocked!!!

Pat comes from a family of 13 musical kids. He’s been playing drums since 7th grade. His mom was the piano player and band leader for the well-known Maule Family Band from Scottsdale back in the 70s. They performed at weddings, church, and Elks Club dances. They even performed in Vegas for a private Debbie Reynolds birthday party. As early as high school, Pat played at places like Pinnacle Peak Patio, Rawhide, Mr. Lucky’s, Rustler’s Roost and Reata Pass Steakhouse, all among Arizona’s most well know country venues. Pat was the original drummer for the Herndon Brothers Band. He played at the HBJ for 10 years, 5 nights a week. Pat still enjoys playing for private parties, especially ones with lots of dancers who enjoy the music.