The Mighty Reapers

The Mighty Reapers were formed in 1986 by “Continental” Robert Susz and Dave Brewer (fellow member of the Dynamic Hepnotics) and since their beginning, the band has earned a reputation as one of the finest live acts in Australia for their unique blend of blues, soul and funk.

Featuring “Continental” Robert on vocals/harmonica, Dave Brewer - guitar/vocals, Clayton Doley – Hammond organ, Antero Ceschin – drums, and since the sad passing of long time bass player Vito Portolesi in 2018, the band is now joined by legendary blues great, Ray Beadle on bass (and guitar).

Over the years the Mighty Reapers have played at most Australian blues and jazz festivals, including the East Coast Blues and Roots Festival (Byron Bay), Gold Coast International Jazz Festival (Qld), the Manly Jazz and Blues Festival (NSW), Thredbo Blues Festival (NSW), Australian Blues Music Festival (Goulburn, NSW), Wangaratta Jazz Festival (Vic).

During the late 1980’s and throughout the 1990’s, the Mighty Reapers were in demand both for their own shows, and as a support band for touring international artists including: BB King, Albert King, Buddy Guy, Screaming Jay Hawkins, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Clarence “Gatemouth” Brown, Lonnie Mack and others.

The Reapers also supplied backing on tours by artists such as Hubert Sumlin (Howlin’Wolf), Louisiana Red, Billy Branch, Bobby Radcliff, Big Jay McNeely, Mojo Buford (Muddy Waters), Phillip Walker and Margie Evans.

With 5 critically acclaimed albums released, the Mighty Reapers have also recorded albums for US blues performers Margie Evans "Drowning In The Sea Of Love" (Rufus Records) and Big Jay McNeely “Jay Walkin” (ABC records).

Since Ray Beadle recently joined as a regular band member, the Mighty Reapers are back in business in a big way, and excited to bring their music to new audiences!