Erica, Mick, Rich(The F), Bill & Kramer
1-24-2006

Making new friends on the road is the only way to make a club feel like home. This past week was full of travel; over 20 hours total, but at the end of our last gig is what makes it all worth it. From the beginning of the night, into the late hours, Erica, Mick, Rich (The F), Bill, and Kramer partied hard with the Benderz. When all was said and done, the jager kept flowing as we were all invited back to their awesome house. Thanks guys!! See you next time!

Matt "Matty Boom Batts" Thompson
1-9-2006


Friday, we said goodbye to our brother, our friend, our bass player.  Matt Thompson has been the ONLY BASS PLAYER for THE BENDERZ since our 1st show at 15NORTH on March 8th, 2003.  Matt has been the BIG BROTHER of the band since day 1!  He gets us to the shows on time.  He makes sure we're all safe, he builds things like MacGuyver... and he is one of the MOST genuine, loving, sincere human beings that has ever walked this earth! We will miss him dearly...  But most of all, we wish you ALL of the LOVE AND LUCK that your life with your wife and new home, and doggy names Ronin have to offer!!  You are FOREVER OUR BROTHER, MATT!! 

Mike D
1-2-2006

How is someone SO talented, so genuine, so gifted NOT in a band?  I don't know... but I know this....  We consider ourselves so lucky to call Mike D our "Friend Of The Week."  Mike plays keyboards with us at Savoys, Shocker Wednesdays, The Whiskey Tango, Havana, and anywhere else we can convince him to come out!  He is an AMAZINGLY talented musician and if ANY of our fellow friends in bands are looking for a keyboard player.... CALL MIKE!!  You will NOT be disappointed!!  We love you Mike! 

John (from 23 EAST)
12-20-2005

Our friend of the week this week is John (our fearless Bouncer/Friend) who works at Brownies 23 East!   John stands in front of Stoner all night... protecting him from harm.... pointing out the hot girls... and providing chocolate treats for the band's tasting enjoyment.  John (although a straight man) is the first to blow kisses at Joe... and pass him love notes during a show!  John, thanks for your protection... thanks for your Reeses Cups.... and thanks for the love!!  You rock! 

Each and EVERY ONE of YOU!
12-11-2005

Our friend/fan of the week this week is YOU.  If you have EVER been to one of our shows.  If you come once a year because your schedule doesn't really allow more.  If you come out once a month for a "night out."  If you come out once a week.  If you come to EVERY SHOW.  You are the REASON for what we do.  Without you, we have no jobs.  With you, we make our living by living our dreams.  Without you, there is an empty room every night.  With you, there is a mannificent party waiting to happen.  Without you, there are songs.  With you, there is music to be shared.  Without you, we are 7 guys playing instruments.  With you, we are The Benderz.  I stated an African Word in a recent blog.... and I need to state it again b/c of how much it applies here....  UBUNTU!  Which means.....   "I am.... because of you."  To all of our fans/friends from Montreal, Canada to Key West, FL to San Diego, CA.......   THANK YOU, WE LOVE YOU.... UBUNTU.