Rees Shad & The Conversations bring a rich, dynamic layer to Shad’s acclaimed Americana sound—blending storytelling with world-class musicianship and deep rhythmic chemistry.

Featuring drummer Bobby Kay, bassist Jeff Link, this trio delivers a powerful, textured live experience that moves seamlessly between groove, nuance, and improvisation.

Kay, a longtime collaborator of Shad’s for over two decades, anchors the sound with instinctive rhythm and feel. Link, a former Berklee faculty member and seasoned Broadway and touring musician, adds depth and precision shaped by years alongside top-tier artists. Benoit brings global experience from his time as a USAF bandsman—performing worldwide, including at a presidential inauguration—along with a strong compositional voice. Rounding out the group, Valdez infuses Afro-Cuban rhythms and expansive musicality drawn from work in theater, film, and his own acclaimed projects.

Together, The Conversations create a sound that is both sophisticated and soulful—elevating Shad’s songs into something immersive, alive, and unforgettable.

Expect rich textures, deep grooves, and a band that truly listens—to each other and to the room.