Mike. With accolades for his signature vocal spirit, individual songwriting style, and dynamic live performances, Mike Hayes is sought after as one of the top singing guitarists in Chicago. An extremely versatile musician with a commanding stage presence (and killer smile), he has performed across the country at music venues including the House of Blues and the Dolby Theater.
Maddy. Unflappable. Unstoppable. Maddy Ludwig is truly one of Chicago's most coveted performers. Her energy is positively contagious! Known for her uniquely soulful singing style, influences in rock, pop, folk, motown, and R&B have given her voice the range and depth that make Sarlas Five the right choice for Chicago's hippest celebrations. From performances with the 80s hair-metal tribute band Hairbanger's Ball, to Howl At The Moon Chicago, in every sense of the word...Maddy rocks!
Matt. Drummer. Lead vocalist. Multi-instrumentalist. Matt Nanke is a triple threat. From Sublime to Zac Brown to Lynryd Skynryd and Rascal Flatts, Matt truly morphs to cover it all. Very rarely will you find a drummer who lays down impeccable time, while singing lead vocals and harmonies like a boss. Matt’s multifaceted virtuosity make him an integral part of Sarlas Five's popularity.
Matt. The driving force behind Sarlas Five, Matt blends a mixture of rock and blues with hints of fusion and classical for an extraordinary range of musical textures and styles. He's good enough to share the stage with ZZ Top, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Ace Frehley...and has. As a recording artist, Matt has collaborated with producer Kevin Shirley (Journey, Led Zeppelin, Iron Maiden, Rush, Joe Bonamassa) to record a four song EP. His powerhouse guitar grooves and solos ignite the dance floor, every single time he takes the stage.
Andy. Bassist, guitarist, and composer Andy Neel has been an integral part of Chicago's coveted music scene for over a decade. Performing and touring with rock, pop and jazz fusion groups, he has established himself as a valued member of Sarlas Five. He performs often at the House of Blues, The Metro, City Winery, Double Door, and music festivals from coast to coast. Groove-master Andy has infectious energy that is the perfect conduit for the joy of celebration.
Woody. With keyboard lines and synth patches authentic to the original recordings, Woody's prowess gives Sarlas Five the ability to perform many dance tunes that other bands would be hesitant to perform live. This Missouri native and graduate of Columbia College draws on influences from Chick Corea, John Legend, and Herbie Hancock to create multi-layered pop landscapes and compelling jazz voicings.