Singer/songwriter Dave Martin is a college graduate and vocational drop-out. Upon completion of a journalism degree from the University of Iowa Martin rifled through a series of real jobs...In February he released his debut record, "Bottom 80." He has been touring behind the album since. Martin's influences include James Taylor, (he started playing guitar after meeting Taylor at a concert when he was five) Jeff Tweedy, Tom Waits and Greg Brown.

His "roots pop" is similar in style to Mason Jennings and Josh Rouse.

Ben Reiser's first band was called illegal outpost, he was 12 years old, his sister was 10. He didn't want her in the band but she had the casio keyboard. their signature tunes were "subway shuffle", "haunted stereo"and a cover of the stones classic "can't always get what you want". Ben's second band was called Traci Lords Ex Lovers, they played CBGBs, The Pyramid Club, and Ben's parents living room. their signature tunes were "I want sex tonight", "ma, I gotta make a phone call" and a cover of the Billy Joel classic, "sometimes a fantasy". Ben's third band was called All About Chad. Chad played bass. Ben's mom booked a two week tour of the midwest, after which the drummer and guitarist quit. their signature tunes were "Chad's got an earring" "Chad's driving me home", and a cover of Linda Ronstadt's classic "how do I make you". Ben's last band was called Swim Team. Dr Steve rocked a dan electro and Gail rocked a cow bell. they played Dr Steve's living room and Mark's garage. signature tunes included "meet me in the hallway", "quick thaw", and a cover of the Knack classic "maybe tonight".
Ben may not have any band mates with him at Mother Fools, and he may not play any of these signature tunes, but rest assured, he will give you a little something something to remember.

Jesse Banks, a young and up & coming guitarist from the near east side of Madison, plays mostly original folk-rock with some blues/jazz influences. His songwriting is soulful and poetic, his guitar playing rhythm-based with complex lead segments. Over the past year, Jesse has played at neighborhood festivals, coffee shops, on State Street and recently released his first self-titled CD.