The Mercs from left to right: Mike Huston, Jules Coulson, Wendy Koulouris, Larry Belli
Larry Belli started the Mercs in the 1980’s, who were originally the Mercenaries. They shortened the name, so as not to offend anyone. They were a band of professional musicians for hire. They backed vocalist Kathy Wilson, MCA Records, and did side gigs on their own with vocalist/percussionist Jim Long, great bassist Tony “Smitty” Smith, drummer Bruce Guttridge (who now plays with Blues star Joanne Taylor Shaw) and vocalist/keyboardist Rick Ferla.
In the 1990’s, Larry toured with “Code Blue” doing Blues clubs. He then hooked up with Dennis Yost and Classics 4 (of Spooky and Stormy Fame). From there, he started Catfish Mary with Erin Burkett and opened for John Mayall and the Bluesbreakers (who Eric Clapton and Fleetwood Mac came out of). They also opened for Savoy Brown with guitar great Robben Ford, and The Premier Queen of the Blues, Koko Taylor!
Mike Huston is a multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, and music teacher from the Fawn, PA, area. His hard work and dedication to the local music scene have encouraged many musicians in the area to get out and strut their stuff! Mike is currently involved in a number of local projects including: Wendy and the Lost Boys, The Mercs Blues Band, The Gruuve Band, Barbary Wine, Miss Freddye’s Home Cookin’, and The Larry Belli Trio. Mike also hosts many acoustic open stages around the AK Valley. His warm personality and encouraging spirit offer a welcoming stage for local talent.
Mike’s influences range from the Beatles, The Band, Bob Dylan, Simon and Garfunkle, The Eagles, The Beach Boys, Neil Young, Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young, and Led Zeppelin.
The Mercs Band. Left-Enzo Beli ~ center-Jules Coulson ~ right-Mike Huston and Wendy Koulouris