Only in Sonoma could 3 Ma’s make a right

When naming a band, there are many directions to take. Geography could play a role in the naming, such as with the Atlanta Rhythm Section. It could have a reference to musical lineage, such as Allman Family Revival. Even musical inspiration could enter into the decision, as with The Beatles, derived from The Crickets.

Just plain weird works, too, as with The 13th Floor Elevators. Last names are an obvious direction, such as the Tedeschi Trucks Band. But a trio comprised of three strong musicians can be tricky to name. Focus on one person’s name? How about all three? Who goes first?

Local players Mark Willson, Mark Dennis and Mario Ramirez have a long history of performing here in the Valley. Their band is cleverly called MaMaMa. Their partnership with MaMaMa is recent, but their musical roots are deep.

Dennis has been very active in this neck of the woods. He is the founder and leader of Vox Populi. He has also taken many a bow with local bands over the years, namely The Gig Jung Band, Rubber Soul, the Jenny Purcell Band the Mark Dennis Duo and Sue Albano’s band, Joyride. In MaMaMa, Dennis sings well, plays a solid and tasteful guitar and doubles on electric bass.

Ramirez is the guy in the middle, tearing up the stage with tasty lead guitar licks and strong vocals. He is an experienced musician, singer and showman. His talents, including masterful guitar skills, are very apparent.

Willson is an experienced player, excellent guitarist and strong vocalist. His considerable claim to fame locally is as the founder of the Plan B band, which included the future MaMaMa players. In this band, Willson sings in his distinctive baritone, plays guitar superbly and runs a mean rhythm machine.

Mark Dennis has had Willson and Ramirez performing as Plan B, providing dynamic and excellent music behind the splendid Vox Populi group for their live shows.

During a conversation with Ramirez about MaMaMa, he said, “What we have ended up with is a real diverse and eclectic set of music. We touch on many genres: pop, rock, jazz, Latin, some country; we play some beautiful country. It goes from the ‘20s to current times.”

The band plays around town often. MaMaMa will appear at Sonoma Speakeasy on Saturday, March 25 at 5 p.m.

While famous classical musician Yo-Yo Ma might be considering a lawsuit because of the similar-sounding monikers, musically there really is no confusion. One cello does not a rockin’ bluesy based trio make.