About

Steeped in the Soul Jazz and Funk traditions of Grant Green, Jimmy Smith, Earl Van Dyke, and Booker T & The MG’s; The Heavy Sounds testament to instrumental soul music from the 60’s and early 70’s has quite literally created a band that can say everything while saying nothing.

The Heavy Sounds are Ryan Juravic (drums), John W Lauler (bass), John Wills (Guitar), Alexander Kerwin (Alto Sax) and Pete Benson (Organ). What’s amazing about these cats is that their level of expertise in the instrumental setting is equaled and heightened by their work backing up legendary soul shouters from all over Chicago. This band has had the honor of backing up singers like Otis Clay, Syl Johnson, Renaldo Domino, Gina Bloom, Michael Avery, JC Brooks and others. Their extensive work as session musicians and backing bands has morphed this soul outfit into Chicago’s modern equivalent to the Funk Brothers.