The band
Bruce Hoover
Bruce Hoover, lead vocalist, keytarist for the Power Pop cover band, North of Normal, has enjoyed a career spanning decades. From starting early at age 6 on trumpet and theater organ, teaching himself piano in high school, to classical pipe organ in college, and ultimately playing a part in many original bands and cover bands, Bruce has performed in many genres. Favorites among his career was singing Sinatra in a 25-piece orchestra and now bringing you fun and energetic pop, rock and country in North of Normal.
Sammy Ray
Sammy Ray is a well-rounded musician in Wisconsin, USA. She has been nominated “Female Vocalist of the Year in 2017, 2018(Singer/Songwriter of the year), 2019, 2020, & 2021 by the Wisconsin Area Music Industry(WAMI). Known to be a prominent member of multiple bands she plays guitar, harmonica, banjo, drums, and sometimes keys. Sammy went to the University of Wisconsin Waukesha for Percussion and transferred to UWMilwaukee for Music Education - Finger-style guitar. When she's not on stage she has her face in a book studying natural hygiene and the terrain model of disease, or outside kayaking and hiking, spending time with family, and creating original spray paint art.
Don Bray
Don has been playing guitar for almost 40 years. During that time, he was a member of numerous original, alternative rock bands throughout the Milwaukee area as well as a solo project for the past two decades. One of his proudest moments as a musician came in 1993 when he was awarded a WAMI for New Group/Artist of the Year. Don enjoys all things guitar and when he's not playing live, he's building, repairing or modding guitars and amplifiers for himself and others. He cites Jeff Beck as his main guitar inspiration and The Beatles, R.E.M. and Gin Blossoms as some of his musical influences. Don is beyond excited to bring his love of music, experience, and abilities to North of Normal.
Jason Bowers
With over 30 years behind the kit, Jason Bowers brings a dynamic rhythm and deep passion for playing music to North of Normal. Though initially classically trained, Jason discovered his natural ability to play by ear at an early age. This talent allows him to lock into the feel of any musical style, which he has honed over the years playing in various original and cover bands. He is thrilled to put his energetic drumming and creative flair into North of Normal's eclectic song selections. With his rock-solid groove and anything-goes attitude, Jason promises drum fills and good times in equal measure.