Matt Chase and Thunder Canyon

Matt Chase formed Thunder Canyon in 1993, and since this time, the group has enjoyed having the reputation of being one of the top Hot Country bands in Central New York, as well as being able to cover all of the favorite Traditional country hits. The group’s versatility is evidenced by the fact that it can perform to many venues including night clubs, casinos, public parks, field days, county fairs, weddings, and private parties. Thunder Canyon  also plays at major events such as the NY State fair, Oswego Harborfest, and other National festivals and shows. The group has in the past performed on the same stage with national recording artists Dwight Yoakam, Andy Griggs, Rascal Flatts, Kevin Sharp, Marshall Tucker, Big and Rich, and many others. Experience, versatility, and talent are the group’s major attributes, allowing it to perform to any venue anywhere.

Lead singer, keyboard player, bass player, and guitarist Matt Chase, considered to be one of the finest country vocalists in Central New York, and a Sammy Award nominee, fronts the group. Matt, a crowd favorite, is a veteran country player and vocalist, perfecting his craft for over forty-five years. His vocal versatility enables the group to perform songs from artists such as Alan Jackson, Garth Brooks, Alabama, George Strait, Brooks and Dunn, Keith Urban, and many others. His ability allows the group to perform at all of the above-mentioned variety of events and venues and is also what gives the band a decided edge in the Hot Country field.

Gary Burns is the group’s steel guitar player. Gary is a longtime Central New York music veteran, and one of the original founding members of the group. His signature sound is what gives Thunder Canyon the true New Country sound and establishes the group’s foundation.

Derek Powers plays bass guitar and provides backup vocals for the group. He is a thirty-year veteran player, experienced in playing Rock and Country. Derek is also a lead guitar player. Along with the drummer, his powerhouse sound gives the group a great rhythm section.

Playing lead guitar is Mike Bullock. Mike joined the group in 1999, and is also a forty-five year veteran of the local music scene. His versatility in styles was developed while playing Rock, Pop, Variety, and now Country.

Rounding out the rhythm section is Rance Walters. Another long-time veteran of the local music scene, Rance comes into the group with over fifty years of experience, including a previous eight-year stint with the band in the early 2000’s. His many years of experience playing Rock and Country allows the group to continue it tradition of having a powerful rhythm section.