The Valley was just a few short years into the new millennium and heavy guitar and bombastic drums dominated the radio. Local band Downtyme, featuring Ben Fooks, Dallas Durant, Marcel Augey, and Chad Huene, was making a name for itself. The band released two albums and even became a finalist in the National Songwriting Contest, sending them to Canada Music Week. Four of their tracks made it into Rexall Place for Oilers’ games and made the charts on Alberta radio. On the occasion of lead guitarist Augey’s 40th birthday, the band, with Kendall Coveney on the drums, played a set at the Last Chance Saloon in front of about 120. For those who missed the impromptu show and want a blast from the past, Downtyme is available on many streaming platforms and YouTube.
