WAKING THE SLEEPER
Meet the talented individuals who make up WakingTheSleeper. Each member brings their unique skills and passion to our music. Get to know them below.
KEYBOARDIST/CO VOCALIST
MISS ELIZABETH
Miss Elizabeth Trickey, a virtuoso keyboardist and enchanting backing vocalist, embarked on her musical voyage with strings at the tender age of 8, quickly expanding her talents to the piano by age 11. Her artistry is fueled by a diverse palette of musical influences that weave through the tapestries of rock and metal, drawing inspiration from iconic artists such as Pat Benatar, Tesla, Tool, Evanescence, and Korn.
Over the past decade, Miss Elizabeth has graced stages with her dynamic presence and impeccable skills, becoming a staple in the band Karmic Fusion, among various other cover bands that span a multitude of genres. Her versatility and passion for music shine through in her performances, captivating audiences with her keyboard mastery and vocal harmonies.
Before her rise in the rock and alternative scenes, Miss Elizabeth dedicated her voice and soul to spiritual music as a Praise and Worship Leader, singing for God with heartfelt devotion. This foundational experience has not only honed her vocal prowess but has also imbued her music with a depth of emotion and a spirit of transcendence.
Miss Elizabeth Trickey continues to inspire and electrify with every note she plays and sings, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who witness her musical journey.
LEAD GUITARIST
SETH WILLIAMS
Seth embarked on his musical voyage at the age of 12, with a guitar in hand and a dream in his heart. His playing, rich with nuance and complexity, owes its lineage to a pantheon of guitar gods: the virtuosic melodies of Steve Vai, the intricate compositions of Marty Friedman, the fluid dynamism of Guthrie Govan, and the innovative expressions of Jeff Beck, among others.
Seth's guitar prowess has not only captivated audiences but has also seen him traverse vast landscapes of sound and geography. He's left his mark across the Western United States and ventured into Canada, wielding his guitar as a sonic emissary alongside National Recording Musician Evangelist Stephen Williams.
His journey is a harmonious blend of inspiration and dedication, leading him from the bedroom to the big stage, where his influences and his unique voice on the guitar resonate with every note played. Seth's musical path is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the endless pursuit of guitar mastery.
BASS GUITARIST
WILL AKIN
William Akin, affectionately known as Will among his peers, embarked on his musical journey at the age of 16, picking up the bass guitar and never looking back. His playing is deeply influenced by a pantheon of bass legends, from the thrashing ferocity of Cliff Burton to the groove-laden riffs of Geezer Butler, and the modern, innovative styles of Fieldy, Rayna Foss, Rex Brown, John Campbell, and Gabe Crisp. This eclectic mix of influences has shaped Will into a versatile and dynamic musician, capable of delivering powerful bass lines that are both complex and captivating.
Will's prowess on the bass has led him down a path of remarkable experiences and collaborations. He has lent his talents to the hard-hitting sounds of Without Sacrifice and teamed up with the German Award-Winning Recording Artist Christine Black and her band Blacklace. His musical journey has been marked by significant milestones, including opening for renowned National Acts such as Hed PE and Straight Line Stitch.
Through tours and recording sessions, Will Akin has proven himself to be a formidable force in the music scene, with a bass style that resonates with depth, power, and emotion. His ability to blend different genres and influences into his playing has made him a sought-after musician, known for his dedication, skill, and the unmistakable energy he brings to every performance.
DRUMMER
CHRIS "WES" WESLEY
Chris ignited his passion for drumming at the tender age of 8, embarking on a rhythmic journey that would define his career. As a pivotal figure, he co-founded Harvest the Flesh in 2009, where he laid down the beats until 2020. His drumming style, a ferocious blend of precision and energy, draws inspiration from the titans of metal and rock, including Pantera, Foghat, Slipknot, and Lamb of God.
Beyond the studio, Chris carved out a name for himself on the live music circuit, sharing stages with heavyweights like Soulfly, Motorgrater, Psychostick, American Head Charge, The Fabulous Miss Wendy, Head PE, and a host of other luminaries. His expertise wasn't confined to his own performances; as a seasoned stage hand and road dog, Chris played a crucial role behind the scenes. He's been the backbone of the operation, handling everything from truck loading to pyrotechnics, and serving as a drum technician.
His technical skills were put to the test on some of the largest stages in the music world, including The Rolling Stones' final tour, Knotfest, and tours with Slayer, Lamb of God, and numerous country music acts. A highlight of his career was when he took on the role of drum tech for Taylor Swift during her performances at the Mile High Stadium in Denver, CO, and Arrowhead Stadium in KCMO, in 2019.
Chris's journey is a testament to his versatility and dedication, both on the drum kit and behind the scenes, making him an indispensable figure in the rock and metal scenes.