UPDATE: The band formerly known as Night Train is now performing under the name Silky Ray
Go to our new website at http://SilkyRay.2ya.com
This six-piece rhythm and blues band has been thrilling audiences and musicians
alike at clubs and festivals in and out of their hometown of Columbus, Ohio.
Night Train has opened for such luminaries as BB King, George Thorogood, The Fabulous Thunderbirds,
Son Seals, Anson Funderburgh, and The Mighty Blue Kings. Night Train also placed third in the 2000 Columbus Blues
Challenge and has headlined such events as the Big Bear Rhythm & Food Fest
and the Columbus Arts Festival.
Michael Arnold established Night Train in 1999 with the purpose of having a band
that could play rhythm & blues originals, as well as music by the artists
that he admires. “There are not many groups who can play an Ike Turner tune
and follow it up with something by Santo & Johnny,” Arnold says. “What
makes Night Train a step above your average bar band is the caliber of the
musicians in the group.”
Night Train's members are guitarist Michael Arnold, singer Ray Macklin, saxophonist
Mark Donavan, keyboardist Tony Bonardi, bassist Bill Cory and drummer Rick
Soriano.
Ray Macklin
The talent and magnetic stage presence of singer Ray Macklin ensures that
the audience has a good time. “Silky Ray” Macklin’s booming vocal style is
influenced by such great blues shouters as Big Joe Turner and Eddie “Cleanhead”
Vinson. When Macklin calls the band to begin “Jumpin’ at the Jubilee,” everyone
snaps to attention.
Michael Arnold
Michael Arnold’s guitar tone combines passionate blues and sophisticated
swing. Having spent most of his musical career as a jazz musician, he brings
a unique style to the band and a fresh voice to the blues. Arnold has been
profiled in publications ranging from local newspapers to the legendary jazz
magazine, Downbeat.
Mark Donavan
Twenty-six-year-old tenor saxophonist Mark Donavan shows a musical maturity
beyond his years. When he starts to blow, you’d better buckle your seat belt.
Whether gently swinging or honkin’ a riff, Donavan’s distinctive playing
gives Night Train plenty of steam. He was recognized in Columbus Monthly
magazine as one of the best up and coming musicians of 2000.
Tony Bonardi
The big B-3 organ sound of Tony Bonardi provides Night Train with a soulful
punch that separates the group from any other band. Listen to his tribute
to Booker T. Jones on “Hip-Hug-Her” and you will know why he is one of the
most in-demand keyboardists in the Columbus area.
Bill Cory
The Night Train’s rhythm section is built from the bottom up with the booming
bass of Bill Cory. Swinging on both acoustic and electric bass, Bill’s
bass-lines lay down the tracks for the Night Train to charge full steam ahead.
Rick Soriano
The drummer and engineer of the Night Train, Rick Soriano’s rock-steady grooves
drive the band on a journey through many musical landscapes. Well-versed
in all styles, whether it’s a funky James Brown groove, a lively jump blues,
or a swinging shuffle, this Tri-C award winning drummer makes you want to
get up and dance to the music.
