Created around freestyle songwriting sessions around a fire pit, Soul of the River was formed in June 2002. Out of Southern California, Soul of the River creates an unusual blend of songs that immediately grab the listener. Steve Hansen's abstract yet funky basslines take a lead voice in the music and effectively compliment the overall song instead of coming off as too strange and abrasive. Rene Felix has the unique blend of funky, shuffle drumming style, with the punch of John Bonham and the thunder of Steward Copeland, that creates a one of a kind sound that makes the most avid hip hop or country listener rock out and get down. Brett Dawson, brings a melodic vocal, and groove based guitar style that ranges from laid back funk to raging intensity. This unique blend of styles playing great original songs guaranteed to make even the harshest critic love, is the perfect formula to create the eargasmic sound of Soul of the River. Nominees for both best classic rock band, and best live band in the 2006 Inland Empire Music Awards