High Plains Reader
Organ-Drum Power Duo-Chris and the Doctor
August 16, 2006

The Sugar Free Allstars have been going strong since 2000 with a few changes in who they are and what they do but still they create the music that they enjoy and love. Along with music that means something to them, they are also all about rock shows and entertaining their fans.

The Sugar Free Allstars are Chris Wiser (organ, sax, bass and vocals) and Rob "Dr. Rock" Martin (drums and backing vocals). the high Plains Reader spoke with Chris Wiser.

HPR: What is the history of your band and where would you say your music comes from?

CW: We formed in 2000 as a guitar/organ/drum trio. The original drummer quit in 2002 and was replaced by Dr. Rock. Then our guitar player quit in 2004 and that's when we decided to continue as an organ/drum power duo. Our music comes from things around us, casual observances of everyday life.

HPR: Your versatile style of music comes from very diverse musical upbringings. How do you use your musical background to add to your music and make your sound what it is?

CW: Dr. Rock and I were both band nerds. So in addition to music from the radio we also were exposed to more complex music in class, which helped to shape our style.

HPR: How do you balance out your vocal duties with playing the bass?

CW: I have gotten to the point where I can put the bass lines on auto pilot and concentrate on what I'm singing/saying to the crowd.

HPR: Your live show is so full of high energy and has the reputation to go with it. How would you describe the energy and the style of your stage performances?

CW: Since we don't have a guitar player or anyone standing up on stage, we feel like we need to be more high energy so people won't notice the absence of a third member. In addition we are both fans of the "rock show," which is typically very high energy. I believe it's important not only to play well, but also to entertain the crowd.

HPR: How do you think that your stage perfomances compare to the albums that you create?

CW: We try to do a little more production on our albums, layers of sound we might not do live. We feel like our material is strong enough to stand on its own, so we want to make the live show a bit different thing.

HPR: You've been expanding your areas of play for the last few years. Have you found more of a fan base in the areas where you've played?

CW: Yes we have. It's great to meet new people and see how they react to us for the first time.

HPR: What are your influences as a musician and as part of a band?

CW: I am a big fan of older R&B and New Orleans funk. Dr. John, the Meters, Ben Folds etc.

HPR: Now that you are more widely known, where would you like to take your music in the future?

CW: We would like to continue to expand east and west. We really would like to go overseas, do a tour in Europe.

-Sarah Tijan