Meet the Band

Travis Marvin has been playing and singing country music for over 15 years. Travis credits legendary country music artists Johnny Cash, George Strait and Garth Brooks for influencing his musical choices over the years. Travis has been fortunate in his journey thus far by meeting some amazing people along the way. It has been his privilege and honor to work with some of Nashvilles great writers and musicians on his debut album such as Eddie Kilgallon, Kent Blazy, Gary Hannon, Eddie Montgomery, Jeff Dayton and Billie Dean. Travis has also been part of a Christian duo, Sinners Saved by Grace, as well as being out on his own-but now he fronts the Country group, "Travis Marvin and Hammer Down". Travis has also been writing his own music with his producer Eddie Kilgallon, keyboardist for the duo Montgomery Gentry. Travis says, "Music is a part of my life and I am thankful everyday for the support of my family and new found friends, Hammer Down! Without them, the reward would not be as sweet. The start of my journey has been amazing so far and it's only just begun! Please come out to a show and say Hi-we'd love to hear from you!!"

Mike Newsome was born in Fort Polk, LA and raised in Montana, this former rodeo bull rider began playing guitar at age 7 in the family church. Mike brings a wealth of professional musical experience to T-Marv and Hammer Down . His life has taken him through years spent in Texas, Ohio and Missouri playing with such legendary bands as The Billy Miles Band, The South Texas Leftovers, Tumbleweed, Cross Country, The Longhorn Band and ACB. After settling in Freeman, Mo, Mike spent several years playing in the Paola and Middle Creek Oprys. His major influences include George Strait and Merle Haggard. Mikes natural ability makes him the consummate lead country guitarist. When Mike isn't playing music or working he enjoys the outdoors and hunting, and has traveled to remote parts of Africa in search of the next trophy.

Jeff Fritzemeyer has been playing drums since the age of 13. After graduating highschool Jeff attended Musicians Institute in Hollywood California where he recieved his Certification in Drumming and Percussion. He has played in a number of bands around Kansas City as well as on the road and is a master of a variety of music styles ranging from blues, rock,country to fusion jazz. Jeff enjoys most any style of music and is a big fan of Miles Davis, Chris LeDoux and Pink Floyd. In his spare time he enjoys watching hockey, baseball and rodeo and looks forward to spending time with his wife and son. Jeffs textbook technique and rock solid drumming skills set the tempo for Travis Marvin and Hammer Down.

With a musical background ranging from blues to country, rock & roll to jazz and contemporary Christian, Reese began his self taught musical journey in guitar and bass at the age of 12 and by 16 was performing extensively in choirs, jazz concerts and high school rock bands. Having lived in Belton, Mo most of his life, Reese cut his teeth in local venues such as country oprys, honky tonks and numerous clubs in the KC metro area Reese has also played with such notable groups as Gold Rush, The Outlaws, The Longhorn Band, Clay Mountain, Nightwinds, ACB and every available Sunday is in Church playing with the Praise Band. He lists his major influences as 80s' hair bands, Stevie Ray Vaughn and the outlaw stylists Waylon & Willie, Johnny Cash, and Hank Williams, Jr. Reese lays the foundation for T-Marv and Hammer Down and his bass playing style is the essence of class.

As the newest member of Hammer Down, Chris was never a stranger to music. He grew up hearing his Grandpa play and sing Johnny Cash and Hank Williams Sr., which inspired him to learn how to play. At the age of 14, Chris began playing the drums for his school’s jazz band. He loved playing the drums, but always had a desire to play the guitar. At the age of 18, Chris began teaching himself how to play. He improved his skills by playing weekly at his local church. His musical influences range from the intricate guitar licks of Brad Paisley and Keith Urban to the soulful intensity of John Mayer. Currently he enjoys spending time with his wife, Teresa, working on his 1966 Ford Mustang, and playing in the praise band in his local church. Chris’ contemporary style brings a unique sound to the stage of T-Marv and Hammer Down.