The Dubious Rubes

Mike Gelardi-vocals & keys

Kris McBride-bass & vocals

Patrick Kavaney- vocals & guitar

Jeff Alberts-vocals & drums

Dan Parslow-vocals & guitar (Not pictured) 

Starting in 2011 and originally composed of Patrick & Mike, it started off as “Acoustic Bent”, being a side project of the then “Sonic Bent” band comprised of Patrick, Mike, Noah Kamrat, Keenan Dorn, and a number of drummers such as  Rick Buckendahl, Beau Eastlund, Joel Albrecht and Jeff Alberts. Looking to simplify things and to play out more, Acoustic Bent began playing clubs, wineries, and other venues playing primarily Patrick’s original tunes. It was late in this timeframe that Acoustic Bent became the Dubious Rubes. Mike began playing with Kris in the Pink Floyd tribute band, Us and Them, in early 2018. When that band folded, Kris joined the Dubious Rubes to add some bottom end to the duo. After a year or so, a collaboration occurred after a KRVM show with Marty Chilla, and through mutual friends, the Almond Butters Band formed along with Mina Wegner and Beau Eastlund. As luck would have it, the Almond Butters Band was sailing along when the pandemic hit, which was its demise. 

In 2021-22, with venues coming back online, and opportunities to play increasing, we teamed up with good friends Beau and Jeff to round out the rhythm section. In late 2021 the group teamed up with drummer Rich Sellers, saxophonist Sean Flannery, guitarist Dan Parslow and trumpeter Frank Visconti to launch a Rolling Stones show that’s been met with great success. 

Dan Parslow has become a Rube over the past few months and it's exciting to add a second guitarist, as it  really rounds out our sound and allows us to better vibe and more accurately perform songs by groups like the Allman Brothers, The Band, Wilco, etc.,.  The same goes for another frequent contributor, John Shipe.   A high caliber singer/songwriter, he's a "touring maniac" and plays throughout the Willamette Valley, Bend, Portland and parts beyond.   His songs are great.  He and Patrick frequently collaborate on shows in Eugene featuring their original music.  Our friend Zev Kamrat of Soul Vibrator has been contributing to our Wilco shows, and is a welcome addition to our sound. We also play frequently with our good friend Chris Ward.  Like most bands, personnel sometimes rotates when one of us is out.  Tom Buckman has been filing in for Kris on bass; he's a great player. We've also been fortunate to have some fine drummers available to fill in for Jeff when he's out: Dave Johnson, Bob Becker,  Michael St. John & Ray Merrill. 

We've put on a couple Wilco shows at The Garden at Friendlys and Sam Bonds.  It was exciting and the turn out was great. Thanks to all that came.  Can't wait to decide what our next tribute will be.

We continue to explore a variety of possibilities  to bring a new and unique show to the Willamette Valley and beyond. What a long strange trip it’s been! We look forward to many more years of music, collaboration, and good times!