Strange Arrangement is quickly climbing the ranks of the Midwest music scene and has been developing a strong fan base with their fresh, innovative sound. The band regularly plays at venues in Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Wisconsin and Iowa such as Bell’s Brewery, Illinois Brewing Company, Founder’s, The Iowa City Yacht Club, Martyrs’, The Mousetrap, The Verve and The Kinetic Playground while venturing into further states to expand their touring area. They have also released an EP and a skillfully self-produced full length album, Side X Side. Their ever-changing musical landscape and sense of humor bring audiences an entertaining show that leaves them dancing and wanting more.

Jim Conry: Vocals/Guitar

Jim started playing guitar at age 14. He has studied under guitarists Frank Dawson and Fareed Haque, which gives him a broad scope of improvisational possibilities. He is a songwriter at heart with a passion for lyrical expression. During the time he lived in CO, Jim performed at the Boulder Theater and The Fox Theater, sharing the stage with George Porter of The Meters and Garaj Mahal. The Grateful Dead, Bob Dylan, Pink Floyd, and Grant Green have all influenced his style.

Kevin Barry: Bass/Vocals

Kevin studied bass at the collegiate level before making a name for himself in Colorado. From 2001 to 2006, Kevin performed regularly with members of bands such as String Cheese Incident, Leftover Salmon, Yonder Mountain String Band, and Dr. Banjo. He also played with Grammy nominated Phil Mattson at venues across the country including Carnegie Hall. Kevin’s biggest influences are Victor Wooten, Geddy Lee (Rush), Bobby Sheehan, and “Cachao” Lopez.

Joe Hettinga: Vocals/Piano/Keyboards

Joe has focused on many different styles, including Classical, Jazz, Rock, Folk, Funk, and everything in between. His passion for music led him to study at the collegiate level, where he performed with ensembles at venues such as Town Hall and Lincoln Center in New York City. He has served as pianist and arranger for many different kinds of groups through the years, including a Salsa band, a Jazz Quartet, various folk groups, a Meters and Scofield funk tribute band, an electronic group, classical music groups and everything in between. In 2003, his thorough study of improvisation also led him to perform on stage with Umphrey’s McGee. His influences include Phish, Miles Davis, Wilco, Pink Floyd, Paul Simon, and Herbie Hancock.

Bob Parlier: Drums/Vocals

Bob is one of the most sought after drummers in Chicago for his well-rounded approach to music. Throughout his career, he has played or shared the stage with bands such as Sound Tribe Sector Nine, Leftover Salmon, The Fareed Haque Group, The Motet, The Om Trio, Dark Star Orchestra, and more. Bob’s major influences include Led Zepplin, James Brown, Herbie Hancock, and Tony Williams.