Biography

It is rare when a local band achieves a professionalism generally associated with national acts. It is even more rare that such a band would remain loyal to the region that gave it birth. Twin Cities/Minnesota-if you haven’t heard of Jonah and the Whales-it’s probably because you’ve been living in Antarctica and don’t speak English.

Jonah and the Whales are a hi-energy, non-stop dance band. Ok, they do take breaks. But hey, an engine doesn’t work without fuel! A couple of Perriers and this racecar of a band are back to win the night. And speaking of loyalty, the band’s devotion to the region has given birth to a dedicated following built through years of endless touring.

Current range of material is mostly 80’s crossing over to the 90’s and including a smattering of current music. The MTV decade spawned a slew of infectious dance tunes that not only sent a message to the feet but to the head and heart as well. Good dance music doesn’t have to be devoid of substance. Such material engages the audience especially when communicated by a band that understands delivery and performance. The Whales understand. Wait-let’s not get so serious here. The band is sheer fun and the audience responds accordingly.

The Whales are market-driven; they know their audience, they know their music and they know their business. Man, they know their stuff!!!
Jonas Mayer, founder, leader and drummer for the Whales, has an impeccable track record for not only fostering one of the top bands in the Twin Cities, but maintaining an excellent relationship with club owners, Management and music buyers as well. He knows how to run a business…without missing a beat in performance! Mayer’s decade long relationship with Gregg Schmitt of the Music Works is but one example of Mayer’s ability to form sustainable business partnerships.

This 5 piece power-dance-head-heart-hi-energy-blow away the audience mega-cool band has Rachel Berkness as their lead vocalist, Scott Miller on bass and vocals, Doug Beckwith on keyboard and vocals, Jimmy Berner on guitar and vocals and Jonas Mayer on drums and vocals. Notice how everyone can sing? How’s that for versatility, variety and voraciousness?

The Whales concert-quality sound is tailored to the event/venue and flexible enough to cover indoor/outdoor arrangements. Whether you’re planning a corporate event, civic function, college concert, local fair, festival, street dance or you run a full-featured club. The Whales will fit the environment.

A specially designed lighting system utilizing the latest in intelligent lighting adds tremendous production value.

Band members maintain individuality and unity with an on-stage color coordinated professional appearance.

Happy, High-Energy & Hummable, Jonah & The Whales to Perform at Taste of Chaska