For the best experience viewing this site you need the Flash Player installed.
Rick Crayne Bio
Rick Crayne Bio

slideshows

Bass Guitar, Vocals

Years of dedication and hard work have distinguished Brian Smolar, as one of the most respected and sought after bass players in not only both his native Chicago market, but throughout the Midwestern states.

At the tender age of nine, inspired by watching reruns of the Monkees TV series, Brian picked up his first guitar. They looked like they were always having fun. He mused. So I thought Hey, why not?

Honing his skills through a succession of bands, Brian progressed from, being a high school hero to a regional rock idol while with international recording act, JOKER. Brian did a lions share of the composing and arranging for that hard rock combo; his powerful original songs helped in securing Joker a record deal with BMG/Zoo Entertainment.

Influenced musically by a plethora of singer/songwriter/bass players Paul McCartney, Peter Cetera, Sting, Geddy Lee, Steve Bailey and Victor Wooten Brian is comfortable playing everything from jazz to pop to heavy metal. Diversity and dexterity has made Smolar a popular session player in the Chicago market. In the late 90s Brian fronted his own band The Situation which you can hear a few songs on Brian Smolar/ myspace.com.

Brian Smolar