October 13, 2005
Even without the novelty of having a female lead, versatile band Mr. Whooha would still be a professional sounding band, composed of musicians well- traveled, well- versed and well-honed in their respective instruments. Throw in the engaging, flirtatious Lisa Kolenda, and you have a group that can play anywhere and blend in, soft or hard, melodic or rockin’.
Hailing from Grand Rapids three years ago, Whooha has enjoyed a second home in Muskegon, due to what Kolenda describes as a "better rock venue". Never at a loss for fans or dancers, the quartet plays with passion, as evidenced by Lisa’s dancing with the patrons, or her fetish for tabletops and chairs for that matter. Charismatic, tasteful and inoffensive, the band mixes country, rock, disco and originals to reach everyone. With Kolenda, they have an advantage only women can bring.
Complementing Lisa is the technical leader Mark Kurek on guitar, who sparks the crowd by sliding down off the stage during sets. Blistering solos hearken one’s ears back to the days of ‘70’s rock, fusion and jazz. Joe Adams on Bass, and Chance Estep on Drums provide enough contrast to give the band a unique flavor and up-tempo pace.
According to Mark, it’s an "addiction to music" that gives the band dexterity with the tambourine, harmonica, keyboards and even a smoke machine. Their Vegas-like club animation and humor is enough to make even a deaf person smile, and their ease with the spotlight doesn’t preclude them from sharing it.
Calling it a "blood thing", Whooha provides a positive energy you can’t help but absorb. Entertainers as well as musicians, this group won’t leave you alone. You’ll have to have a good time.
