Album Notes

Old-time music is the magnetism that draws the members of the Red Star Express together. Mix a few parts bluegrass, folk, country and gospel and you have the blend of entertainment that makes up the Express' agenda. Red Star Express has been entertaining audiences throughout Eastern Wisconsin with its list of traditional favorites and a few original tunes, written by members of the band. Acoustic instruments and vocal harmonies make up the mainstay of the band's sound, with a strong presence from the guitar, mandolin, bass, fiddle, banjo, and harmonica. Based out of the Newton, WI area, the band plays with up to 9 performers. Gerry Jost is one of the original band members, featuring his talents on the mandolin. Jost also offers variety with a few fiddle tunes and the harmonica. Chris Jost serves as the group's lead guitarist, and also plays the dobro. Kate Pearce provides vocals, harmonica and holds the rhythm together on the upright bass. Eldon Klein offers his special talents on guitar and vocals. Mike Mathes offers guitar, dobro, rhythm and vocals. John Losinecki enjoys playing on his 200 year old fiddle that once belonged to Vassar Clements. Chuck Wernecke plays the banjo. Songwriter/guitarist Mike Bittner takes a turn at singing and playing when he isn't mixing the sound. Sue Woodward, also an outstanding fiddler, has been with RSE since the fall of 2002.