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About Us Astral Plains Band was conceived by Robert Mancuso as a recording project band during the summer of 2004. The style of music was, and still is, country/ country rock. After a couple of late summer public appearances, the band focused on recording original songs in the studio over the fall and winter. In early March of 2005, the decision was made to make Astral Plains Band a serious performing band, as well as a recording band. The band soon landed a long term “house band” gig at Mr. Bee’s Inn in The Blue Collar Tavern in Brandon. Other engagements include an appearance at the Army, Navy, and Air Force Club in Brandon and performing as the opening act at the Rivers Jam Fest. The band also played at the Broadview Hotel in Broadview, Saskatchewan. The permanent players are as follows: Tad Hoyak (drums, from Rivers, Manitoba) has been drumming since 1964 and has played with many great bands over the years. In the process, Tad has become very versatile with the ability to drum to any kind of beat, from folk to heavy rock. He has also developed his own unique style, which contributes heavily to the distinctive sound of the Astral Plains Band. Tad also handles the technical/ logistic aspects of equipment transport and setup for the band. Adrienne Hrushowy (main lead and harmony vocals, rhythm guitar, from Brandon, Manitoba) developed her talents as a singer and guitar rhythm player by performing for many years in the northern bush country of Manitoba. Adrienne's powerful and passionate vocal style is tempered with subtle dynamic control, never failing to hold an audience's attention from beginning to end of each song. Adrienne is also a very talented song writer. Robert Mancuso (bass guitar, backup vocals, from Brandon, Manitoba) was musically influenced by his parents, who both sang and played music. He picked up the guitar at an early age with a passion to become a song writer. In the early seventies, after a “garage band” phase, Robert became fascinated with the role bass guitar played in a band. The serious pursuit of this interest has taken him down many roads, performing to audiences in Ontario, Quebec, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and even California. Producing and performing original songs is still his main interest, while acting as the business leader for the band. The band staff also includes Tad’s wife Donna and Robert’s wife Cindy, who support and travel with the band in the capacity as stage managers and sound/ light persons. Their service and enthusiasm is invaluable to the success of the band.  | |||