Combined, our recording engineers Wes Dearth and Mark Prator hold over 50 years of music industry experience. Wes and Mark have been working together since the early 1980s, when they founded the 1991 Southwestern Music Conferences showcase act, Autodrive. During the more than 10 years they performed as Autodrive, they toured the U.S.extensively- performing showcases and concerts at A circuit venues.

Both are seasoned musicians, performers, and songwriters and have worked in various capacities with many artists throughout their music careers.  Together, they have written, recorded, and performed more than 5 full albums as John Wesley Band.

Mark Prator

Mark has an extensive touring,  performing and studio recording background. After leaving Autodrive in the early 1990s Mark began working as a recording engineer for Morrisound Recording Studio in Tampa. Since then, he has earned a reputation for his work- as an engineer, drummer, and producer.  He has recently toured with Sebastian Bach of Skid Row. He has also toured and performed with former White Lion front man, Mike Tramp and Scottish neo-prog legend Fish. 

Mark is a sought-after session drummer and has performed on many album, commercial, and demo projects.  In addition to his work as a musician, Mark has received producer credit for a long list of bands albums, including Tampa based death metal band, Obituary. Mark is legendary in the Tampa music scene and is known as one of the areas top recording engineers. 

>>Click here to read more about Mark Prator's recording, performing, and producing credits.

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Wes Dearth

Most recently, Wes has toured as sideman guitarist and vocalist for critically acclaimed Lava/ Warner Brothers UK based recording act Porcupine Tree. Wes has also toured and performed with former White Lion frontman, Mike Tramp, Scottish neo-prog legend Fish, subbed on lead guitar and bass for Gainesville's Sister Hazel, and performed as opening act during several tours for UK based Marillion. 

Wes' diverse recording industry background lends to his versatility in the studio. In addition to his live performing background, he regularly completes guitar and vocal sessions, and provides producing and songwriting guidance in-studio. He specializes in recording vocal performances and guitar tracks. Wes has completed Digidesigns Training and Education Program and is designated as a certified Pro Tools Operator.

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