Jasper Creek - Classic Country

Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue …

Wedding day traditions?  Nah, we are talking about Bay City based classic country combo Jasper Creek.  The band, featuring a core of Tyler Hughey, Dean Hughey and Kirk Hepinstall pulls its influences from the “outlaw” era of Country and Western music in the 1960’s and 70’s.  Influenced by acts like Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings and Johnny Cash, the band has been a regular on the area scene since their formation in 2013.

Originally assembled as a backing band for veteran performer Wayne Austin, the band spun off as its own entity when Austin “retired” from regular performances. 

According to guitarist Tyler Hughey, “We really try to keep things fresh.  We have some talented friends who sometimes join us.  Our real goal is for people to leave the evening with a smile.”

The band’s first performance came in front of a large crowd at Butch Heath’s Freeland Country Music Festival in 2013.  They are now Sunday regulars at Big D’s in Midland and in other country music venues around the region.

Hughey, who lists his main guitar influence as Cash’s sideman Luther Perkins, continued “We mainly play good ole country music.  A lot of people that follow us request ‘two step’ numbers like ‘Keys in the Mailbox’ and ‘Pride” by Ray Price.  We also will add more modern pieces by acts like the Mavericks and Dwight Yoakum, in addition to some classic rock and roll songs.”

While his father, Dean, and drummer Hepinstall are veterans of the circuit, many will remember the younger Hughey from sit-ins with acts like John Krogman and Rustbucket when he was a pre-teen.  He progressed very quickly as a student of local teacher Gregg Barber and under the watchful eye of many well-known area performers.  He has grown up now and so has his ability as a polished country performer.

Tyler Hughey added “One of the things people always ask is ‘there going to be a dance floor?’  We like it when people get come out and dance.”

Jasper Creek will be at Strikers Bar in Washington Lanes in Bay City this Friday and Saturday nights, January 20 & 21.  There is no charge to get it.  Come on out and join the fun.  Remember to bring your dancing boots.