Vocals, Guitar

Andrew Duncanson & The Take A Ride ft. Michael Peloquin came to fruition to support the hard-won effort of California Trap. The hand-picked band of six is a close-knit group of friends, on and off of the stage—feel the love! The band’s debut album is in the can, ready for a planned Fall 2026 release. 

Throughout his career, Andrew Duncanson has earned widespread praise for his ability to move seamlessly from a raw gritty vocal style to a deeply soulful and expressive sound. His voice has drawn comparisons to icons like Bobby Womack, John Fogerty, Bobby Bland, and Van Morrison. Since 1999, Duncanson has served as lead vocalist and guitarist for the Champaign, Illinois based Kilborn Alley Blues Band—recording seven albums, including four on NIck Moss’ Blue Bella Records. During the pandemic he launched The Dig 3 with Ronnie Shellist and Gerry Hundt, releasing two albums, most recently 2023’s Damn the Rent.

2025 saw the release of the album California Trap— an ambitious collaboration with Michael Peloquin that earned Andrew three Blues Blast Award nominations and First Place/Best Blues Artist in the Unsigned Only Music Competition. Over the course of his career, Duncanson has performed more than 3000 shows across forty states and nine countries. His newest project, Andrew Duncanson & Take A Ride ft. Michael Peloquin continues to showcase his evolving sound; most recently appearing at the 2026 Des Moines Winter Blues Festival to many smiling faces.

Saxophone, Harmonicas, Vocals

Michael Peloquin has been a working musician since his late teens in Champaign, IL and then at 23, landed in the SF Bay Area. He has worked alongside a plethora of musicians and their projects (Jeff Beck, Tommy Castro, D.K. Harrell, Neal Schon from Journey, Mr. Bungle, E.C. Scott, Little Milton, Mitch Woods). He won 1st place at the World Harmonica Festival in 1997!

Lately, he was horn arranger/saxophonist for Chris Cain's 2021 Alligator Records debut album, "Raisin' Cain" and his 2024's "Good Intentions Gone Bad." Peloquin played harmonica on the 2024 major motion picture: "Reagan" and is prominently featured (as the voice of Snoopy's brother, Spike) on the 2021 Apple TV+ special: "Snoopy Presents: For Auld Lang Syne."

He also played harmonica on the soundtrack of 2022’s "Death in Texas" starring Bruce Dern.

Drums, Vocals

Drummer Josh Quirk has been playing professionally for over 25 years. A musician with a lengthy portfolio, including touring, shows and recording with harmonica great Gary Primich, Viktor Krauss (Lyle Lovett, Bill Frisell), Chicago blues standout Eddie Shaw, Duke Tumatoe and Arnold McCuller (James Taylor, Phil Collins).

When not performing or recording, he leads a popular online drum school called Drum Highway. Josh’s dynamic drumming is the engine room of the band; laying down rock-solid grooves that get folks on their feet.

Keyboards, Vocals

Jesse Brown, with over three decades of stage and studio experience, brings a wealth of musicality to every performance. He's a true journeyman, having lent his talents to a diverse array of bands.

Jesse effortlessly navigates the landscapes of rock, blues, jazz, country, and beyond; creating a groove that moves the soul and is driven by the pure joy of making music that resonates.

Bass, Vocals

Dan Henry, a seasoned bassist with a long stint with Midwest legends, Pork & The Havana Ducks, now operates Crescent Moon Studios in Central Illinois.

Dan’s lifelong dedication to music led him to establish a professional recording and production environment where he collaborates with artists to capture their unique visions.

Trumpet, Rotating Chair

The trumpet role honors the late Justin Dyar (pictured), a gifted musician and generous spirit whose presence helped shape the early identity of the band and left us all way too soon.

Chad Whittinghill from Madison, WI, is the newest member of Take A Ride. Chad has toured and recorded with The Jimmys, drumming legend, Clyde Stubblefield (James Brown’s Funky Drummer) and leads his own smokin’ funky horn band, Rare Element!

Michael Millfield/Denmike is a native of Copenhagen, Denmark. Michael is a very accomplished musician. As a long-time member of The Danish Radio Big Band, he has performed with many US & European jazz, blues, and pop legends. Michael made the upcoming Take A Ride album come alive with his stunning, soulful playing!

Eric Devey is a graduate of the U of I music program and provides his awesome trumpet stylings between Minneapolis, Chicago, and Central IL.