Brian Klos
A prodigy at an early age, Brian studied the pan
flute with world renowned Zamfir... but quickly realized he’d never have a girlfriend if he continued. By 11 he realized the guitar was the way to go and
started spinning his mom and dad’s record collection looking for something that would inspire him. Thankfully he steered clear of the Slim Whitman albums
and instead found Johnny Cash... and young Brian's world was forever changed.
Later, he studied with guitarist/singer/songwriter Peter Mayer (of Jimmy Buffet fame) and learned the intricacies of guitar and vocals. Performing in many bands while in high school and college he honed his musical skills; but gave it all up to pursue a business career and put his degree to work. When he hit that point in life where we all start to look for some definition to our existence, Brian dug out his old guitar and started performing in public again.
What followed was a reunion with long time friend and band-mate Steve Bertani. Together they got the music ball rolling again with Brian handling guitar and lead vocals and Steve on percussion and harmony. Not knowing at the time, Steve was key to naming the band “MidLifeVice”. Because, he had told Brian back in their post-college days that they’d start playing again once they hit 40. Little did he know how right he would be. Steve continues to play drums with the group when he can tear himself away from his real job as General Manager of the Lyceum Theater in Arrowrock, MO. Brian continues to be the front man (a nice way of saying Diva); handling lead vocals and rhythm guitar. when you see us live, be sure to ask Brian about his many hours with the great Zamfir... he has some funny stories.
bryan rankins
A talented multi-instrumentalist, Bryan has been
making music since before he was in kindergarten. Growing up in a family that supported and encouraged his passion for music, Bryan had
the opportunity to play with many different people and he used that to his advantage to learn from them and define his own style.
Choosing Gospel for many years, Bryan played for many churches, choirs, and groups throughout the Midwest; even traveling as far as London and Paris (that’s London, KY And Paris, TN... had you going there didn’t we?).
A few years back, Bryan was hand-picked by Bob Taylor of Taylor Guitars to play on the demo videos for the launch of the GS Model Guitars. Bob had seen Bryan playing in a hotel suite in California. After hearing Bryan play his guitars, Bob's comment was: "He gets everything out of my guitars that I build into them". Bryan has gone on to star in many YouTube videos and has done several product demos for industry manufacturers.
Honoring the consumer in us all, and with the blessing (and normally encouragement) of his lovely wife, Robin, Bryan has managed to acquire a few very nice guitars in his arsenal. He has an affinity for high end acoustics and electrics, new and of the vintage persuasion. His favorite makers, and what you see him playing live and in the studio, include Bourgeois, Breedlove, Taylor, R Taylor, Melancon, and Glaser. When it comes to amps, his loyalty and passion remain true to Rivera Amplification. For over ten years now, any time you see Bryan playing out, he'll always have one of his trusty Rivera amps by his side.