In celebration of the homecoming football victory, Terry “Sweet Basil Daddy” Cushman, Dana “Pappy Paprika” Meadows, Bill “Thyme O’Day” Day and Tud “Col. Wundo” Bowden from The Wundo Band pumped up the crowd at the Annex’s Back Bar on Oct. 11.

Since the late 1980s, the Wundo Band has been pleasing audiences with creative nicknames and eclectic musical selections. The members’ nicknames give insight into the band’s history and name in the making.

One morning, Scott “Red Pepper” Patchin and Bowden decided to create a new spice recipe for family and friends to enjoy during the holidays. After Bowden embraced the Mardi Gras scene during a trip to New Orleans, he was inspired to cook different Cajun recipes. After a few test runs, Bowden finally came up with a perfect spice blend and new name for his creation—Wundoemus.

“Pepsi had Michael Jackson, the Wundoemus Spice Company has the Wundo Band,” Bowden said.

Cushman charmed the crowd with a playful, comedic introduction followed by a rock and roll opener with the band members. The audience, both young and old, began to swing dance to the band’s exceptional instrumentals and vocals.

“They are always a consistent band that plays music everyone can enjoy. People always seem to enjoy them regardless of age and they are all good guys,” Tyler Bass, Annex bartender, said.

The band jumped between a wide variety of genres including famous rock and roll, country and pop songs. Playing everything from George Strait to the Beatles, the Wundo Band matched the audience’s energy with upbeat, fast tempo songs.

Meadows’ saxophone, Day’s drums and percussion and the unique inclusion of Bowden’s musical saw delivered a smooth compliment to Cushman’s energetic vocals.

“I really liked the beat of all the songs, especially with the drums. Overall, I really like the sound and the guys were funny too,” Tory Dittman, senior said.

After beginning their career by playing music in grocery store aisles, the Wundo Band went on to become a historic treasure to the Platteville area.

“It’s addicting. I don’t know anybody who has ever done it that wants to quit. Therefore, that’s why I’m one of those old guys that’s still playing music,” Cushman said. “I just love being with people. To have this talent and ability to play music and do it for peoples’ enjoyment is a real reward.”

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