Excelsior Springs, MO – Excitement filled the air at Wabash BBQ’s Icehouse Blues Garden last Saturday night, June 7, as local favorites J.D. and The Chasers took center stage for the venue’s long-awaited reopening. Patrons eager for live music after a pandemic hiatus packed the venue, with over 500 people turning out to enjoy the band and Wabash’s signature food and drinks.
“We missed the people and the good bands,” said Jim and Cheri McCullough, owners of Wabash. “We wanted J.D. and The Chasers to be our first band back after our four-year break.”
Formed in 2007, J.D. and The Chasers is a beloved local band known for their genre-bending sets. The group’s versatility was on full display during their energetic four-hour performance, which seamlessly blended blues, country, soul, R&B, and bluegrass influences. Band members Jacob Duncan (vocals and guitar), Marie Mawby (vocals), Robert Mawby (bass), and Jason Martinez (drums) delivered a crowd-pleasing set that kept audience members of all ages moving.
J.D. and The Chasers kicked off the evening with a high-octane rendition of “Cramp Your Style” by Breakestra, immediately getting the dance floor packed. Audience engagement is a hallmark of the band and a key factor in their popularity. Their setlist showcased the strengths of each member while maintaining a cohesive sound. They also weaved in originals from their album “DB Cooper and The Lost Cash,” which happens to be available on all streaming platforms.
Wabash’s owners expressed their gratitude to the band and the enthusiastic crowd. Vocalist Marie Mawby echoed the sentiment, highlighting the band’s connection to the venue and their fans. “We’re not just a band, we’re a family,” she said. “There’s something super special about playing for familiar faces of all ages at the Wabash Blues Garden.”
J.D. and The Chasers left the stage with the same energy they brought in, keeping the dance floor filled until the very last note. Look out for J.D. and The Chasers performing throughout the summer (check out their Facebook page for updates!). As for the Blues Garden, the venue hasn’t released a full schedule yet, but Allied Saints will headline next on June 22nd. Stay tuned for more announcements!
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