Joe Washrag actually started out as  a writing and recording project. LJ, Andrew and Gene, who had played together on and off for about 10 years, decided to get together and record some original material just for fun in a home studio that Andrew had set up. The itch to play live returned a few months later and talks of forming another band began, especially after playing a couple of parties for friends. After a lot of discussion on what to play, blues was decided upon and Tom, who had played with LJ and Andrew in a short-lived project called The Subterraneans was added to the line-up. With varied influences including blues, rock, rockabilly, Motown, and The Dead, a unique blend was created. Although blues is the main musical focus, you never know what might find its way into a set from time to time. Try to check us out sometime and we hope you enjoy.

Since the original formation of the band, Kevin Plaster joined. He was the drummer for The Subterraneans and adds his special talents to our rhythm section. Larry Hoyt is now on bass. He comes to us from the Blues Defenders, and if you're not careful, he might just end up at your table.  Eric Riddle is now handling vocals.  Andrew has moved to handling the recording duties as well as the being the band's amp and equipment tech after work schedule conflicts prevented him from making it to a lot of the shows. He still makes an appearance from time to time, though.

Kevin Plaster is an extremely talented person. Even though his main instrument is the drums, Sometimes he plays congas and he is very proficient on keyboards and guitar also.  He adds a lot of harmony vocals.  And he has two very beautiful daughters, Eve and Zoe. (Private Party, Axton, VA, 2006)

LarryHoyt holds down the bottom end with a mean collection of basses.  Here he plays his '58 Fender Precision. (Green Dolphin Grille, Roanoke, VA, 2005)

	He's known as LJ. His specialties include guitar and backing vocals.   Here he plays his treasured Gretsch Jet guitar (that he put a ding in that night).   (New Year's Eve, 2005, Martinsville, VA, Piedmont Art's Association Fundraiser)		Eric Riddle. As you can see he handles the lead vocal chores.             (McPherson's, Greensboro, NC, 2007)

Finally we have Gene Martin "Joe Washrag" himself. Drums and inspecting the inside of empty beer bottles are his claims to fame (has to make sure he gets every drop).  His favorite hangout is Otto's Pub, where the beer is free as long as you bring your own. (The Shed, JWR's rehearsal spot, secret hideout, 2004)		Tom "T-bone" Turner is a blues man from way back (well maybe not that far back). He has also been known to pick up a set of bongos from time to time.       (Two Wheel Cafe, Sydnorsville, VA, 2005)

HONORARY BAND MEMBERS THAT SIT IN FROM TIME TO TIME.

Ricky Manns lends a funky groove on the keyboards on occasion.  He's pretty busy with Pressure Point and his DJ business.     (Whisker's Roadhouse, Floyd, VA, 2005)

Jimmie Jordan sits in with the Joe Train from time to time when he's not playing with his usual band, Delirious.  He plays a wonderful saxophone and is a fellow Deadhead.   (Whisker's Roadhouse, Floyd, VA, 2005)

Andrew isn't really an honorary band member.  He is a band member.  He is the sound tech, does all the recording and occasionally sits in on bass.  He is actually the largest stock holder in JWR.       (Honduras Coffee Shop, Stuart, VA, 2005)