Music is supposed to be fun, exciting, thought provoking and daring. On every live performance, The Shams Band makes sure that their ever-growing audience leaves each event with a personal feeling of satisfaction. Drawing heavily on their Wilco, Stones, Smokey Robinson, and John Lee Hooker influences, singer/songwriters Biggins/Gulyas/Patterson create distinct, personal songs. Once united with the full group, the songs come to life, tell stories, and send audiences singing all the way home.

Although it’s only been a year, The Shams Band is quickly making a name for themselves in the Chicago music scene. They have opened for national touring acts: The Avett Brothers and David Grisman. They are slated to participate in the second annual Chicago Bluegrass and Blues Festival featuring six-time Grammy winner Bela Fleck at the Congress Theater (December 12th, 2009).

In the fall of 2009, The Shams Band released their self-titled EP. With their catchy hooks and a do-it-yourself attitude, the four-piece band is quickly becoming a main stay in the Chicago music scene.

Donnie Biggins recently gathered with a group of mid-western musicians to create the “Chicago Roots Collective;” a collaboration of musicians working together to get their music heard. The CRC is complete with established bands, such as Mike Mangione and Todd Kessler, with The Shams Band leading their journey to reach the masses.