Band Members

Madison, Wisconsin based funk band, RARE ELEMENT has developed a strong reputation for its high-intensity, live shows.  The band's highly talented 7-piece roster, including 3-piece horn section, bring massive energy to the stage at each performance.  The band is influenced by classic funk artists such as Fred Wesley, The Meters, Clyde Stubblefield, and Herbie Hancock.  See for yourself why Maximum Ink Magazine dubbed Rare Element as "Madison's Newest Super Group"!  

Chad Whittinghill (trumpet, flugelhorn) and Bryan Husk (tenor, baritone sax) first met in 2003 as members of the urban neo-soul band, VIBE SYNDICATE.  Unbeknownst to them, they would spend the next 20 years playing side by side with some of Wisconsin’s finest funk and blues bands.  For years, they honed their skilled working together with CLYDE STUBBLEFIELD's weekly Funky Monday shows.  Later, the two would team up with Hammond B-3 ace Jimmy Voegeli and his blues powerhouse, THE JIMMYS.  Over the years,  they shared a common goal to create  a band where this horn section could be pushed to it's limit.   Finally, in 2018, a roster of highly skilled musicians was assembled and Rare Element was created.  

Completing the horn section is Nat McIntosh (trombone).  Nat is a long-time member and composer for the phenomenal YOUNGBLOOD BRASS BAND.  Nat continues to record and tour internationally with Youngblood.  

The band also includes MAMA Award Winner Todd Phipps (keyboards, B3 organ) of  THE BLUE OLIVES (and many other bands).  Todd was recently honored with his addition to the roster of Hammond Organs endorsed artists!

Longtime Madison talent, Joe Niesen brings his super funky guitar playing and song writing to the band.  Joe has a long history of performing with many of Madison's finest bands.

Driving the band is ultra funky bassist Rob Garza.  Rob is also a a longtime member of the Purple Veins Prince Tribute Band 

The bands newest member is 2-time Grammy nominated drummer Joey B. Banks.  Joey is a 5-time recipient of the MAMA Awards Drummer of the year as well as a highly accomplished music educator and former member of the Madison Scouts Drum and Bugle Corps.  He has dedicated himself to preserving the legacy of his longtime friend and mentor Clyde Stubblefield.  Joey can also be seen performing with the great Steely Dan tribute STEELY DANE.