About
Healing Music, Live Energy, and Endless Possibilities
Officially debuting in 2019, Arnica Montana is a rock/funk/indie jam band with big sound & tight groove. Our music encapsulates the spirit of musical healing and boundless creativity. Formed with the vision of blending genres and captivating live performances, Arnica Montana offers something unique to both jam lovers and casual listeners alike. With Mark Burjek on guitar, Justin Weed on drums, Alex Oglesby on bass, Justin Rigler on keys, and Kevin Wayne on guitar, each member each brings their own eclectic influences to create a sound that spans rock, funk, pop, and jazz—reminiscent of jam bands like Phish, Grateful Dead, and Goose.
Debut and Growing Presence
Arnica Montana’s debut EP, released in December 2023, marks the beginning of what promises to be an exciting journey in the music world. The album’s blend of rock, funk, jazz, and pop showcases the band's diverse talents, while their improvisational jams remain at the heart of their identity. With their unique style, Arnica Montana quickly made a name for themselves, clinching the top spot in the highly competitive Road to Homegrown Battle of the Bands.
The band's growing presence in the live music scene has seen them perform at a variety of high-profile festivals, including Eclipse Fest in Mill Shoals, IL, Lakeview East Festival of the Arts in Chicago, IL, and Jamboozled Fest in Mendota, IL. Their performances at these events have left fans raving, further establishing them as a group that thrives on stage. In addition, they've shared the stage with regional favorites like Lunar Ticks, EGi, Alabaster, and Downers Groove and touring acts such as Sun Stereo and RADO, earning praise for their high-energy shows and captivating presence.
The Healing Power of Music
The band's name, Arnica Montana, comes from the flowering herb known for its healing properties, reflecting the group’s mission to create music that connects and heals. This approach is felt throughout their dynamic performances, where every song becomes a journey. Whether it’s a laid-back groove or an epic improvisational jam, our music invites listeners to lose themselves in the moment and feel the release of stress or strife.
A Blossoming Bright Future Ahead
As Arnica Montana continues to grow and evolve, the band’s members are determined to push boundaries and create music that connects with listeners on a deeper level. Their fusion of genres and fearless approach to live performance ensures that each show is a new experience. With their debut album, festival appearances, and more live shows on the horizon, Arnica Montana is poised to make an even bigger mark on the Chicagoland music scene in 2025 and beyond.
For fans of improvisational jams, genre-blending energy, and "healing" vibes, Arnica Montana is a band you’ll want to follow closely.