JOSH HOYER and The Shadowboxers is a project formed in late 2012 in famed blues town Lincoln, Nebraska. For the last 15 years, Hoyer has been very in demand as a performer in his previous bands, as a solo artist behind the piano and as a session musician and arranger. Spending much of his time booking and promoting in Lincoln at the legendary Zoo Bar and beyond, Hoyer is an influential part of the funk, soul and blues youth movement.
His current 9-piece Soul band includes some of the areas most revered and accomplished musicians, many of whom have toured nationally and internationally, teach music and are asked to back up bands live and in the studio. The band’s sound and passion come from their deep respect, knowledge of and passion for blues, Americana, soul, funk, and many other styles of music.
2013 was a highly successful first year for the band in which they played dozens of festivals, cultivated a large following in a 3-state area, represented NE in the International Blues Challenge in Memphis and were named 2013’s Best Soul/R&B at the Omaha Entertainment Awards.
In January 2014, they released their self-titled debut album to a raucous crowd of 700 at the Bourbon Theatre. Borrowing from Stax, Motown, New Orleans, Philly and San Francisco, the album blends the classic sounds of Soul and R&B, yet has a vibe and sound that is fresh and unique. Each of the 8 songs has a great groove, exceptional lyrical, vocal and instrumental performance, artful arrangement and challenges to be stacked up to many of the best songs in any Soul catalog.
“Josh Hoyer and The Shadowboxers are coming out firing on all cylinders, smashing styles together to come up with their own groove. Funky soul packed with power, it’s Dr. John meets Al Green backed by Booker T and the MGs. You know, the good stuff.”-Charlie Johnson, Producer/Engineer Fuse Recording
“Joshua Hoyer is one of the Lincoln-Omaha scene’s finest songwriters. His new project gives equal weight to his great songs, his rich, soulful, distinctive vocals and his ability to put together funky, driving and passionate collaborations with his fellow musicians. This band’s sound soars and fills up the dance floor with funky joy.” –B.J.Huchtemann, senior contributing writer, The Reader, Omaha, NE
