TOAST

Originally from the Pittsburgh area, Bassist/vocalist Sam Collis played with various groups before joining the reggae band “Ras Prophet". The group had a strong regional following and supported both International and national acts such as “Burning Spear” and “Inner Circle” as well as opening the Pittsburgh leg of the international “Reggae Sunsplash” tour at the IC Light Amphitheater. After moving to Columbus, Sam served as an original member of the "John Mullins Band", and toured the region extensively as a headline act as well as supporting stints with national artists “Rusted Root”. Sam lays a mean groove as well as brings a soulful songwriting and vocal element to TOAST.

Lead Guitarist John Widner showcased his skills with such bands as "The Bellows", "The Serial Killers", and "The Soundmasons". John can do it all from scorching riffs to sweet melodic slide. He adds an unforgettable energy to the TOAST sound. John’s exceptional abilities keep him in demand as a session player as well as performing “hired gun” work for such groups as Shuckin Bubba, Stonebyrd and others.

Lead Vocalist/Rhythm Guitarist Scott Wise with his burning vocal style brings a diversity of sound to TOAST. Scott was in "The Soundmasons" (with John Widner) and toured the region with Columbus's own "Stonebyrd". He received accolades for his song "Spiral Staircase" in a "Relix" magazine review of the first Stonebyrd LP. His songwriting reflects TOAST's commitment to being multidimensional and original.

Larz is a graduate of Musicians Institute in Hollywood, California, where he specialized in drums and percussion, with continued education at Berklee College of Music and Capital University. Larz began playing at age 5 and began performing professionally at age 14. He played snare drum in the Lancaster High School marching band where he also performed in symphonic band, percussion ensemble, jazz band and pep band.

 

His recordings with a variety of bands and artists over the years have been released on indie, major and local labels in addition to self-releases. Other recording sessions include commercials and jingles for clients such as Ross Laboratories, C.O.S.I., and ESPN2, as well as studio work with Los Angeles platinum engineer/producer John Henning. Throughout his performance career, Larz has played across the United States in Alaska, Chicago, New York, Nashville, New Orleans, Hollywood, and here in Ohio at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He currently maintains an active local performance career in the Central Ohio area. Larz enjoys teaching beginners to advanced students in all styles and of all ages and has been doing so professionally for the past 20 years.