Smooth Operation

Drummer Steve Banks formed Smooth Operation with guitarist Brent Cimbalik., bassist Rayfield Banks and keyboardist Patrick Whitehead. Together they form a funky smooth seductive sound with major Jazz influences of the Yellow jackets, Herbie Hancock, Norman Brown and Pat Metheny.

Smooth Operation is

Steve Banks - Drums Steve has a B.A .and Masters Degree in U.S. History. He began playing drums at age ten. His uncles (The Paterson Brothers Band) influenced Steve as he played all through high school. Steve has played in many church and local bands and is the featured drummer for “Keith O’Neal’s No Longer Singing the Blues Band.” Steve’s musical style is smooth and traditional jazz, funk, R and B. Steve’s quote is that “History reminds us that with God’s Blessing, hard work, commitment and talent anything is possible.”

Brent Cimbalik - Guitar Brent has a B.A. and has been playing ten years. He has played with various groups in the Ypsilanti area and enjoys many guitarist including Norman Brown, George Benson and Pat Metheny. Brent’s style ranges from smooth and traditional jazz to rock and classical music.

Raphael Banks – Bass Has been playing for over twenty-five years. He is a tremendous bassist. Rayfield’s style ranges from funk, smooth and traditional jazz to R and B and Baptist church music. He is also the bassist for the group “The Other Brothers.”

Patrick Lewis Whitehead: - Keyboard was born on Aug 17, 1988 in Ypsilanti, Michigan. He was raised in Ann Arbor and attended the University of Michigan where he received a B.S. in Architecture and studied jazz piano under the tutelage of Professor Geri Allen. He began performing professionally at the age of 13 and is now a professional musician, musical instructor, and designer. He believes in space, time, and love.