About Me
The Band was formed in 1984 with Oz Kaldem & Michael Niner. Soon from a duo, the band gained its own powerful sound with the addition of Mike Smith, and soon after Mutt Martin. The band would continue to Rock the City of Chicago until the untimely death of one of its newest members, Denny Seeley. Things went where they did, yet they all landed on their feet. Mike & Oz stayed together and wrote numerous songs including a Chicago Bears Song, "Bring it Home in 89" which enjoyed city wide air play until the Bears started losing. ( Well, we knew it wasn't the "Super Bowl Shuffle" but we hoped anyway! However, it sits in Mike & Diana Ditka's personal collection as well as the team of 89'J Michael Niner-
Born September 24th, 1949 Chicago IlStudied music under the tutelage of Charles S. Peters, Bruce Housekneckt, Bill Pappas, Jack Williamson, Tim Bogert and many more. Started playing music at an early age beginning with alto sax and soon switched to bari sax.
Played with the National Championship Joliet Grade School Band which performed at the New York Worlds Fair 1964, and respectively National Championship Joliet Township High School Band which performed in Europe and several presidential inaugurations.Started writing, singing and playing bass at 15 years of age. Influences are many including Buddy Holly, The Beatles, Rolling Stones, Woody Herman, Hector Berlioz, Weather Report etc....William Paul (OZ) Kaldem
Born Joliet Il 1954-2009
played guitar and has written music from a very early age. Graduated from Providence H.S. New Lenox IL. Oz has had numerous successful bands. He has under his belt a plethora of influences. His musical history is very reaching and is perhaps one of the most talented musicians in the world in all respects. Oz is known for his 4 octave vocal range ad excellent rhythm and lead guitar riffs. Since this was posted, Ozzie passed into the light. Apparently he has a higher position musically now and can find his eternal peace. He will be sorely missed by all that knew him. It was a bit of a shock to us all as we were working on a "Band" reunion. In the near future. I can give you this guarantee, heaven is Rockin with Oz on board!!!!! Till we all meet again my cherished friend, I'll miss you.Gary "Mutt" Martin-
Born Joliet IL 1950
Lead guitar player extraordinaire. Has played many popular venues, is perhaps one of the most innovative guitarists the 20th century has ever seen.
When you need "Hot licks" Mr Martin is the guy ya want to call.Michael "The Train" Smith
Born 1949 DuPage County ILUnlike other trains, this one is on time, all the time. You always know when Mike is behind his North's, you can here him comin down the track. Influences include Ginger Baker, Gene Kruppa, Charlie Watts, Pat Traverse Band and a host of others. Mike with out any doubt is one of the most solid drummers anyone can find. Thanks to him, we enjoyed tremendous success while it lasted. I thank you Mr. Smith!!!!
