Meet The Band
Michael Ian Brisbane - Guitar
Michael Ian Brisbane, lead guitarist for The Brisbane Project, is renowned for his masterful blues guitar work. With a deep passion for the blues genre, his performances blend emotional depth with technical prowess. As the driving force behind The Brisbane Project, Michael has honed his craft through years of dedication, channeling the soul of classic blues with a contemporary edge. His captivating solos and stage presence have earned him recognition among fans and fellow musicians alike. In addition to live performances, Michael is expanding his reach by sharing his musical journey and expertise through his YouTube channel, where he showcases his solo guitar work.
As a hometown Texas boy, Michael's musical journey began at an early age, with a Weener drum set at age two and later exploring piano. By 5th grade, he was playing the cello and singing in choir. At age 13, he picked up the guitar to impress a girl, sparking a lasting passion for guitar. By 16, he met Paul Baloche, who became his mentor for five years through youth group involvement. In 2008, Michael moved to Southern Oregon, meeting bassist Mike Pugh at Jamland in 2009. His career included bands like Southern Gunns and 2nd Amendment with drummer Ray Kilmon, and an audition for Lita Ford in 2014. After playing with groups such as Bloodmoon Warning, Wild Side, and Sylent Storm, Michael founded The Brisbane Project in 2020. Following a brief stint with a Led Zeppelin tribute band, he returned to the blues with The Brisbane Project in 2023.
Mike Pugh - Bass
Mike Pugh, the bassist for The Brisbane Project, provides the rhythmic backbone of the band with his deep grooves and rich tones. With a passion for blending traditional blues with modern influences, Mike's playing adds both energy and texture to the band's sound. His solid, soulful bass lines perfectly complement the intricate guitar work of Michael Ian Brisbane, creating a dynamic partnership that drives the heart of the music. Known for his versatility and steady presence on stage, Mike's musicianship is a key element in The Brisbane Project's captivating performances.
Mike's musical journey began at age 4 with piano, followed by woodwinds at 6 and bass at 9. He played jazz throughout school and by 13 was performing with his father’s band, "Wolf." At 15, he co-formed "Curfew" and performed at local fairs. In 2009, he met Michael Ian Brisbane at Jamland, which led to their collaboration on original projects like Bloodmoon Warning, Sylent Storm & Living Loving Led. Mike's career includes stints with Disney, numerous bar bands, a Benevente bass deal, and involvement with various band projects. Mike found his home with the blues joining The Brisbane Project in 2020.
Ray Kilmon, the powerhouse drummer for The Brisbane Project, delivers a commanding and dynamic presence that elevates the band's sound. With an instinctive feel for blues and an impeccable sense of rhythm, Ray's drumming intricately complements the groove-driven basslines of Mike Pugh and the expressive guitar work of Michael Ian Brisbane. His versatility allows him to transition effortlessly between subtle, soulful beats and high-energy rhythms, giving the band a unique rhythmic flexibility. Ray's precision and passion are not only vital to The Brisbane Project's compelling live performances but also shape their distinctive sound in the studio, making him an indispensable part of the group's success.
Ray’s journey as a drummer began early, catching the rhythm bug at age 8 and acquiring his first drum machine at 9, which he still treasures. By 10, he had his first drum set, a JCPenney special, and at 14, he joined his first garage band, diving into Green Day covers. His passion for drumming led him to teach at age 19, guiding nine students over two years. His career saw him perform in multiple projects, including stints with Kaustik, Southern Gunns, and 2nd Amendment alongside Michael Ian Brisbane. By 2019, he joined Sylent Storm with both Brisbane and Pugh, and later became part of the Led Zeppelin tribute band Living Loving Led in 2021. In 2023, Ray officially joined The Brisbane Project, where his powerful rhythms and musical chemistry with his bandmates continue to fuel their blues-driven sound.