The Memphis Rejects are new on the Memphis music scene, however the players are no strangers to performing in Memphis. Kim Lemser and Robert Kent Haines began playing together about eight years ago with a band neither one would like to mention. In late 2007, after finding themselves both available, Kim and Robert seized the opportunity to form a new band on their own. The band is firmly centered around Lemser's outstanding tone and tasteful playing style and Robert's energy packed lead vocals, in-the-pocket bass style, and solid front-man/band leader role.

Next in the mix is Robert's brother-in-law Joey Skelton on drums. Joey brings an acute sense of detail to a powerful drum beat coupled with vocal harmonies that are truly stunning. Robert and Joey have voices that work remarkably well together, and have many years of working with each other as a solid rhythm section capable of laying the foundation for Kim's tasteful guitar licks, but the talent doesn't stop there.

Two more guitar players enter the mix opening up the possibility for Allman Brothers/Lynyrd Skynyrd style guitar forays that truly impress. Three guitar players is not always possible, so the first 'second' guitar has been assigned to Buddy Davis, formerly of Target. Former New York City area resident Frank Monteleone rounds out the group, bringing phenomenal blues guitar licks. Together, these three click in a magical way. They function together like fingers on a hand and provide outstanding Memphis-style guitar nirvana!

The name comes from an idea Kim Lemser had, he wanted to call ourselves "The Rejectors", but that name was modified by Robert in order to be more wedding reception friendly. 'Memphis' was later added to ensure the uniqueness of the band's name. Kim pointed we were all rejected from one band or another at some point in our lives, so the name fit us well!

The individuals are:

Robert Kent Haines–Ten year Memphis transplant from the Fort Wayne, Indiana area, Robert fronted his own band called 'Jailbreak' that became well-known for packing the house with hot classic rock and dance tunes. Often times a Jailbreak gig would end like a movie–everyone left at the very end as if a movie had let out!

Kim Lemser–Life-long Memphis musician, Kim appeared on the Show Boat Barge when he was 15 years old. He was also one of the founding members of the local band 'Double or Nothing'. Kim played with many soul bands in the 70's, and brings new arrangements and outstanding tone in small packages to the stage. Attend a reject gig and you'll see what I mean!

Joey Skelton has long standing family ties to the area, but claims he hales from Key West, Florida. Joey collected awards in music competitions while in the U.S. Air Force–as a soloist on drums!

Buddy Davis–Again a life-long Memphis musician perhaps best known for his song-writing and guitar playing with the band 'Target'. Buddy has an unmistakable style, and hopes to be instrumental in writing original material for the band in the near future.

Frank Monteleone–also a Memphis transplant, has played numerous blues gigs in the New York City area. Though he definitely came from the Northeast, he plays Delta Blues like he belongs here. His upbeat attitude and willingness to meld make him a perfect addition to round out the band.

The Memphis Rejects are just getting started, and are playing upcoming gigs at clubs such as The Bel Air Club, J.R.'s, The Crossing, Wrangler's, and Neil's.

You can keep track of the Reject's upcoming gigs "here."

Memphis Reject T-Shirts are available at Reject gigs, just ask Robert!


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