Athens, GA-based trio Workhorses of the Entertainment/Recreational Industry blend traditional folk, acoustic rock, somber bluegrass, and country music with three-part vocal harmonies similar to Little Village or the Band. Comprised of Ben Reynolds (guitar/vocals), William Tonks (guitar/vocals), and Rob Keller (bass/vocals), the three were already veterans on the local scene before joining up together in WERI. Reynolds was one part of the swamp rock duo Chickasaw Mudd Puppies, and had been concentrating on photography since the group's 1992 demise. Along with a slew of Athens bands, Tonks was most notably a member of Barbara Cue and Raleigh's 6 String Drag. Keller previously played with 6 String Drag as well. Originally, Tonks and Reynolds simply played the random gig together around town in between family commitments. Taking their moniker from the nickname of a friend's touring van, WERI were officially born in 2000 with the addition of Keller. A self-titled record was issued in April 2006 on Chicago's Fundamental Records. ~ Corey Apar