HomeBrewed

We are an Iowa City-based blues, rockabilly and rock'n blues band that plays what we call "Music with a Mission". Most of our gigs support local non-profits, who are doing their best to provide for the less fortunate in our community.

The band members include:

Pete Damiano (Lead vocal, harmonica, and song writer) is the organizer of the band by night and a professor at the University of Iowa by day. He formed the band over 11 years ago and feels very fortunate to be able to play with such a talented group of community minded musicians who are willing to use music as an avenue to give back to the community via benefit concerts for worthwhile organizations.

Bryce Bernard (guitar) has been playing lead guitar for over 7 years. He is a versatile musician--in addition to playing guitar, he's a  classically trained clarinet player and joins in on the saxophone when needed. In addition to playing with HomeBrewed, Bryce is the lead guitarist in Iowa City based hard rock/metal band NonGrata.

Joel Carver, HomeBrewed's primary drummer, has been an active musician in the Iowa City area for over a decade, playing in various bands across the area, most notably as the drummer in the hard rock/metal band NonGrata. While he’s more known as a drummer these days, he is a skilled guitarist when needed.

Shaan Desai is the primary Alto Sax player, skilled from his days playing saxophone in his college jazz band, and winning accolades at the state competition. Shaan's an Iowa City dentist, who will serenade you in the chair!.

Jon Carlson (keyboards) is a professor at the University of Iowa. After 50 years away from playing in a band, Jon is thrilled to be a part of Homebrewed, renewing old keyboard skills and, especially, developing new ones.

Kirk Phillips (Trumpet) has 50 years of experience playing the horn. Kirk has been a collaborator with many church choirs over his lifetime and a vital part of our horn section.. 

Robyn Hepker (Bass) is a graphic designer through Benson and Hepker by day and is now starting as our base player by night. Her design work will expand as part of our rhythm section!

Zach Starman contributes by playing both lead and rhythm guitar. Zach is an engineering graduate student, sharing his busy time with the band to help others.