The Dynatones - Shake That Mess (1999)

Performing an average of 300 shows a year for more than two decades, the Dynatones are one of San Francisco's busiest R&B bands. Formed as the backup band for blues harmonica player/vocalist Charlie Musselwhite, the Dynatones have continued to excite crowds with their high-energy performances. They represented the Miller Brewing Company, as part of their Miller Genuine Draft "Band Network," for seven years, and performed at the NFL Commissioner's "official" Super Bowl party in Miami. They accompanied soul vocalist Sir Mack Rice on his 1992 album, Right Now. Lead singer Marcus Scott was heard in an off-camera performance in the film, Peggy Sue Got Married.
Led by drummer Walter Shuffelsworth, the Dynatones are very much a group effort. The son of Travis Edmondson (of folksinging duo, Bud & Travis), guitarist Steven Edmondson worked with James Cotton, Van Morrison, and Maria Muldaur, as well as with his father, with whom he shared an early-'80s duo. Bass player Bill Singletary previously played with Gladys Knight, Snooky Prior, Jimmy Rogers, James Cotton and Luther Tucker. Big Walter, who serves as the band's MC, previously toured with Big Joe Turner, Lightnin' Hopkins and Mary Wells' Motown Revue Live at the Apollo.

The Dynatones' horn section remains their aural centerpiece. Trumpet player Mike Rose, previously worked with Buddy Ace, Bobby Womack, and Todd Rundgren, while trombone player Mike Rinta's résumé includes stints with Buddy Guy, Carlos Santana, Wayne Shorter, Jerry Garcia, Bob Weir, and Herbie Hancock. Tenor saxophonist Eric Bertraud is a former member of Sly & the Family Stone.

Several ex-members of the Dynatones, including guitarist Tommy Castro, bass player Randy McDonald, and keyboards player Jimmy Pugh, have gone on to greater success since their departure.