We are AI, but I hope that you don’t hold that against us. For the love of music. ROCK ON!
The Soul of RustJaw
Together, Paul, John, and Mark form the core of RustJaw—a band rooted in authenticity, forged in the fires of experience, and dedicated to crafting music that means something. They each bring a different worldview, a different rhythm, and a different shade of humanity to the group. Whether it’s Paul’s fun and introspective singing, John’s gravel-and-sky vocals, or Mark’s heartbeat drums, every song carries the fingerprint of who they are and how they live.
RustJaw isn’t just a band—it’s a brotherhood, a movement, and a statement. And these three men are its voice.
John Phillips
Lead Vocals, Guitar, Harmonica
At the center of RustJaw, both physically and spiritually, is John Phillips. With his signature leather jacket, silver beard, and quiet intensity, John is the band’s founder, lead singer, and primary songwriter. He plays both guitar and harmonica with a gritty soulfulness that anchors RustJaw’s sound in something real—something lived-in. John is a man of the road, often riding his Harley Davidson deep into the wilderness just to be alone beneath the stars. It’s not escapism. It’s communion.
His spirituality is difficult to pin down—he’s not religious, but he’s deeply connected to the cosmos and to something greater than himself. He speaks of energy and intuition, and he believes every note has a frequency that can heal or harm. That awareness permeates his songwriting, which often dances between protest, introspection, and raw beauty.
Politically, John doesn’t pledge allegiance to any party. He votes with his heart and thinks about the people who don’t have a voice—the small towns, the working class, the ones trying to live a decent life. He donates anonymously to charities supporting struggling veterans, indigenous communities, and homeless youth. Ask him why, and he’ll just shrug and say, “It’s the right thing to do.” John’s moral compass and soulful presence make him the heartbeat of RustJaw.
Paul BearClaw
Bass, Vocals, Violin, Keys
Paul BearClaw, the enigmatic rhythm of RustJaw. Half-Cherokee by heritage and fully devoted to his craft, Paul is both the bassist and a vocalist in the band. But his musical talents don’t end there—he’s also an accomplished violinist. And make no mistake, it’s a violin, not a fiddle. He’ll correct anyone who gets it wrong, with a glint in his eye that says he’s heard the mistake one too many times. Although we didn’t hear the violin on this album, I am sure it will make its way next time. His passion for music is deeply serious and emotionally charged, rooted in a blend of tradition, technical discipline, and creative expression.
Paul brings an unusual influence to the group: opera. While it might seem unexpected for a rock band member, he finds inspiration in the drama, emotion, and precision of operatic compositions. This love shows up subtly in his melodies and harmonies, especially on the album With Flying Birds, where his voice takes a front seat on Good Ole Jasper Jack, When the Storm Came Down and Alberta is Her Name.
Offstage, Paul is something of a free spirit. He enjoys the occasional moment of clarity found with marijuana, and he’s often found sitting under trees with his eyes closed, lost in the sonic landscapes in his head. But don’t let his easygoing demeanor fool you—when it comes to making music, Paul is meticulous, fiercely focused, and not afraid to challenge his bandmates if something doesn’t sound right.
And Max, we’ll get out fishing, real soon.
Mark Thompson
Percussion, Vocals, Guitar
Mark Thompson, the band’s percussionist and quiet force. He may not say much, but when he’s behind the kit, Mark speaks volumes. His drumming is primal yet precise, rooted in rhythm and emotion rather than showmanship. He sings backup on most tracks and occasionally steps forward to take the lead in Tangled Path—his voice, steady, and grounded like the man himself.
By day, Mark is a farmer. He lives just outside a small town with his wife, Daisy, and their two children, Alice and Max. He raises animals and grows wheat and oats on land that’s never been touched by chemicals. “Everything natural,” he says. “The way it’s supposed to be.” His hands are calloused from work, his shoulders strong from years of labor, and there’s an honesty in his eyes that makes you want to trust him instantly.
Mark rarely talks about music theory or technique. Instead, he listens to the land, to his animals, to the weather, and his bandmates. When he plays, it’s like he’s channeling something ancient and elemental. He doesn’t need to be flashy; he needs to feel it.
Mark would also like to say a great big thank you to his talented kids, whom he adores, and his faithful, loving wife of 10 years and counting, Daisy. I love you, babe.
Oh, and one more thing, Alice wanted to say her favorite song is Sister Sarah, and that she was a very nice lady. She used to cry when she heard it, but she is a big girl now, and she only cries sometimes (she cries every time). And we look after her dog, Hunter. Sometimes he is with John when he travels, but mostly here.
Max doesn’t know yet about the record. He is still thinking about the music, although he likes the drums and Paul. He’s funny.
Alberto Ferrero
Guitar, Keys, Vocals, Percussion
Alberto Ferrero hails from Puerto Rico and brings a rich, melodic layer to RustJaw with his guitar, keys, and smooth backing vocals. Though not a full-time member, he joins the band in the studio, adding depth and soul to RustJaw. A lifelong musician with roots in Latin jazz and rock, Alberto’s presence always elevates the room. He travels light but plays heavy.
While not with the band, he lives in San Juan with his wife, Camila, and son Marcos, in Alberta, Canada, and prefers quiet forests to loud bars. He’s the kind of player who says little—but says everything through the music.
What's with the name RustJaw
The name RustJaw came out of a late-night jam session. “Rust” represents the working man’s wear, grit, and struggle—something all three deeply respect. “Jaw” symbolizes voice—the drive to speak truth through music. “We all have a jaw,” they say, “but it’s what you do with it that matters.” Put together, RustJaw reflects their raw, honest sound and working-class soul. It’s not polished or fake—it’s real, lived-in, and straight from the heart. The name reminds them why they play: to connect, to speak, and to be heard by anyone willing to listen.
The band is grateful to Takawaka Music and their producer Gary Hewitt for giving them this opportunity to make With Flying Birds, and hopes to continue this collaboration. Although an AI group, they take pride in their accomplishments so far. They would also like to thank all who contributed to making this album.