Who we are

In the heart of musical exploration and artistic camaraderie, the Isness Ensemble emerges as a beacon of sonic diversity, weaving together the timeless threads of roots, rock, and jam. With a lineup comprising seven exceptional musicians, each a virtuoso in their own right, Isness Ensemble creates a melodic tapestry that captivates the soul and propels audiences into a realm where genres dissolve, and musical expression reigns supreme.

Meet the Band

  • TJ Murphy

    Drums/Lead Vocals

    At the rhythmic helm of Isness Ensemble is the powerhouse drummer and vocalist, TJ Murphy. TJ has an impressive musical resume, spending many years in the San Francisco scene, before returning to New Hampshire. Known for his dynamic drumming style that effortlessly blends precision and improvisation, Murphy lays the foundation for the band's exploratory soundscapes. His vocals undergird the emotive resonance, infusing the ensemble's performances with a passionate and soul-stirring quality.

  • Bob McKelvey

    Lead Guitar

    Guiding the ensemble through electrifying solos and intricate melodies is the maestro of the strings, Bob McKelvey. With fingers that dance across the frets, McKelvey's lead guitar work is a testament to his technical prowess and musical intuition. His riffs serve as a sonic compass, navigating the audience through the diverse landscapes of Isness Ensemble's musical odyssey. Bob can also be seen in the bands Babaray and The Best Revenge.

  • Gavin Key

    Rhythm Guitar/Vocals

    The sonic alchemist on rhythm and lead guitar and vocals, Gavin Key, brings a kaleidoscopic range of tones and textures to Isness Ensemble. Key's guitar work is a mesmerizing blend of atmospheric ambience and gritty rock. His vocals, like a gentle breeze, add a hauntingly beautiful quality to the ensemble's sonic landscape. Gavin is president of Terrapin Sky Media, and is also known for his work in Kendall Row and The Tom Foolery Band.

  • Christian Raabe

    Bass

    Grounding the ensemble with thunderous bass lines is Christian Raabe. Raabe's bass work is the heartbeat of Isness Ensemble, providing the gravitational pull that keeps the collective energy in perfect orbit. Christian also teaches music in Keene NH.

  • Carol Connare

    Vocals

    Elevating Isness Ensemble to celestial heights with her angelic voice is Carol Connare. A vocal virtuoso with a range that spans from soulful croons to powerful crescendos, Connare's presence adds an enchanting layer to the band's sonic palette. Carol is the 14th editor of the Old Farmer's Almanac!

  • Patrick Clark

    Keys

    Patrick Clark, our keyboard wizard whose fingers glide across the keys, has been playing improvisational jazz rock in the Keene area for 20 years. Crafting beautiful sounds that range from soulful ballads to psychedelic explorations, Pat's mastery of the keys adds a melodic richness that elevates Isness Ensemble's set list to new heights.

  • Tate Keegan

    Percussion

    Providing the rhythmic embellishments and percussive nuances that enrich Isness Ensemble's sound is Tate Keegan. A master of the percussive arts, Keegan's intricate rhythms and tasteful accents elevate the band's jams to new heights. His percussive contributions serve as the heartbeat that pulses through the veins of the ensemble's collective musical consciousness.