South Austin band, Aquifer is a Reggae Americana Rock Band that has undergone a transition over the past year with new members infused into the group. Known for their unique blend of Reggae and Americana music, the band has been in the local Austin music scene for years. The recent additions to the band have added a new level of energy and excitement to their music.
The band's new lineup includes Curtis Rettenmaier on bass, Mike Ded on percussion, and Carolyn Subject on keys/vocals joining original band members Heath Ham on guitar/vocals, and Danny Kopack on drums. The result is an elevated sound that is both dynamic and layered. Aquifer continues to captivate local audiences with their catchy melodies, upbeat rhythms, and feel good lyrics. With a busy schedule and a growing fan base, Aquifer is quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
Heath Ham
Band leader and songwriter Heath Ham is a Tulsa native that brings Aquifer a unique background that involves touring across the US with country bands, performing in jazz clubs, and professionally producing reggae and red dirt music. Through it all, his true passion has been for writing ska/reggae music. Heath’s diverse experience and unique upbringing in mid-America gives a true roots Americana vibe to his song writing.
Danny Kopack
Drummer Danny grew up playing blues in his home state of Arkansas. After taking a hiatus from music through college, he found his way to Austin. Following a brief stint in a country project involving Heath Ham, Danny and Heath started their own project rooted in the red dirt, Americana reggae rock vibe that is now Aquifer.
Danny Kopack
Heath Ha
Curtis Rettenmaier
Curtis Rettenmaier is a talented bassist who has been a contributor to the vibrant South Austin music scene since 2009. Over the years, he has played with countless bands across multiple genres, including funk, jazz, and bluegrass. His unique style and funky bass lines have united fans from different walks of life. Curtis's passion for music is evident in the way he adapts to different genres effortlessly, always delivering top-notch performances and moldic melodies. His deep understanding of music has made him a respected figure within the Austin music scene.
Mike Ded
Timbales player and master percussionist Mike Ded is a seasoned professional and musical talent with over two decades playing music in Austin. Mike’s impeccable timing and and artistic flair fills out the reggae sound, adding dimension to Aquifer’s feel good melodies and catchy hooks. Mike also contributes as music producer, sound engineer and band comedian.
Carolyn Subject
Vocalist Carolyn Subject grew up playing classical piano and singing harmonies in choir groups. As a Chicago native, she was influenced by the emerging pop/punk music scene of the early 2000’s, working in music media and promoting local talent before moving to Austin, Texas. Carolyn met lead singer Heath Ham in March of 2020 and connected through music instantaneously. It wasn’t long before Carolyn was singing harmonies with the band and has also contributed as a guest songwriter on several new songs.