Thee Honeybuds
Thee Honeybuds has the roots of an Americana setting, but with the earthy funkiness of an acoustic bass, swirling guitar leads, and honey-soaked 3-part harmony that ties the band together. It’s rootsy, with a taste of blues, 80’s rock, and a dash of 60’s surf guitar. A sound that keeps you comfortable yet interested in what’s coming next.
"Thee Honeybuds latest single 'Hand In Mine' sets a new bar of song-writing for Hinkelman, introspective lyrics wrapped in shimmering spacey guitar, flows into a strong melodic chorus that builds into a natural crescendo as the band indeed begins to fly!" – Will Wiles, Prepaid Friends President/Founder
Thee Honeybuds is a creation of veteran NW musicians and are composed from current and/or former members of popular and critically acclaimed bands Kerosene Dream, Purusa, and Scotland Barr and the Slow Drags (2012 Portland Music Awards Album of the Year “We Will Be Forgotten”.) In the difficult world of finding online traction, The Honeybuds debut EP “Passing Miles” has already gotten over 68,000 streams on
“Love his gentle rasp and their harmonies are great!” - Danika Rozhanika
Singer-songwriter Zach Hinkelman’s roots are somewhat eclectic, but always resolve to the live performance. Early influences from Ray Charles and Kenny Rogers provided a rootsy/country songwriting foundation. Into the 1980’s with Tom Petty and John Mellencamp gave it a rock ‘n roll edge. Finally, the late 80’s glam then grit with Def Leppard and Guns n’ Roses provided the showman appeal of a live performance.
Many other musicians have inspired along the way. Jimi Hendrix, Freddie Mercury, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Chris Cornell are all in the melting pot of Thee Honeybuds. Sitting in the audience watching is a great experience, but the true calling is being on stage and providing that power to the crowd. Bringing that community to gasp is the dream behind Thee Honeybuds mission.
“Exceptional musicianship, beautiful harmonies, and upbeat songs that make you feel good.” - Kris Kirkman, Purusa
Thee Honeybuds are currently working on their second EP, due out in early 2025.
Zach Hinkelman
Longtime lead guitarist for Portland-based rock band Purusa, Zach is taking a step to the middle fronting Thee Honeybuds. Having spent time in Scotland Barr and the Slow Drags as well as Sharlet Crooks, he’s bringing a mix of blues, americana, and 80’s glam to the music scene.
Jordan Korach
Jordan is a masterful bassist, as well as a Reverb guru on shopping for new bass gear. Cutting his teeth in the North Bay Corte Madero ‘hood, Jordo brings an advanced approach to the low end and keeps everything feeling real sexy.
David Boyle
Fantastic guitar extraordinaire, Dave brings a swirly essense to Thee Honeybuds sound. Cutting his teeth in the Sunset Strip halcyon days of the ‘80’s, he now owns a recording studio in the Portland suburbs.
Jackson Conrad
At long last, our drummer has been found. Using a unique personally styled kit from various eras, Jackson provides the backbone to Thee Honeybuds groove with innate style and substance.