Max Impact on SLC Library Square

  • Published
  • By Catherine Cornett
  • Hilltop Times correspondent
SALT LAKE CITY --  Just because the band was playing on the library plaza didn't mean the Air Force's own band, Max Impact, would lower its volume.

In fact, the band might have pumped it up. Max Impact spent June 3, which was the third day of its seven-day tour, at the Salt Lake City Public Library, where, despite the heat, the crowd as well as some of the younger audience members really got into the groove.

The band, which includes band manager Master Sgt. Dennis Hoffman on drums, Tech. Sgt. Jonathan McPherson on keyboard, Master Sgt. Regina Coonrod and Master Sgt. Shani Prewitt on vocals, Tech. Sgt. Matt Murray on bass guitar, Master Sgt. Matt Ascione, Tech. Sgt. Matt Geist on guitar, and sound engineer Chad Randolph, is based out of Bolling Air Force Base in Washington, D.C.

As they warmed up, library-goers with books and DVDs in hand would pause and listen. Even though it was just the practice before the concert, the band was full of energy, cranking out riffs and hitting the high notes.

Being in the band may seem like all fun and games, but it's still considered a permanent duty station, explained Tech. Sgt. Murray, who is also a part of the Singing Sergeants, the Air Force's chorus, and happened to be subbing for Tech. Sgt. David Foster.

"Depending on your own choices, you could stay for 30 years," Murray said.

The band also regularly travels and has been to Qatar, Baghdad, Kabul and Djibouti, to name a few places.

Since the band is Air Force-wide, auditions are anything but a piece of cake, because even civilians can audition for the band, as well.

"Most people audition as civilians then join the Air Force," Murray said.

The military service may not have Simon Cowell of American Idol to select the best, but the Air Force knows who's got talent. Band members must also "project the highest standards of Air Force professionalism," states the band's Web site, which means there won't be any hotel room trashing or guitar smashing on stage.

As people gathered in the few shady spots around the plaza, the band broke out into "One Way or Another," originally by Blondie. As Coonrod and Prewitt began working the crowd, a few people began to dance and even sing along. Many audience members took pictures and some even sang along.

Aside from recent pop hits and age-defying oldies, the band also performs original songs such as "Free," composed by band member Ascione. These songs reflect the dedication and excellence put forth by all Airmen and also remind everyone of reasons to be thankful.

As the concert continued, dark clouds began to roll in and a few sprinkles dropped to the ground. Despite this, Max Impact stuck it out and jammed out to "Heartbreaker," originally by Pat Benatar.

Unfortunately, the rain persisted, and the band decided to end the concert and not risk its equipment.