Niwot band Voltage 85 takes the stage in Memphis

The pandemic inspired many people to pick up new hobbies, and it inspired others to further develop their passions into something greater. For Niwot senior Dakota Allison and junior Jasper Allison, the pandemic focused them on their musical training and they decided to form a band: Voltage 85.

"Jasper and I have been doing music our whole lives," Dakota said. "We started off in 2020, just us jamming with another guitarist and it took off from there."

The Allison siblings first received training from Mojo's Music Academy when they were in elementary school. Dakota started on the piano, but eventually transitioned to singing, while Jasper found a love of percussion with the drums.

Eventually, they recruited friends who played guitar and bass to form a band, Voltage 85, and started performing covers of popular songs-often blues and rock, but from other genres as well. They performed at events like Live Music in the Garden, sponsored by Left Hand Brewing, and the Greeley Blues Jam. Their performances eventually attracted the attention of Scott and Tracy Fitzke, officers of the Colorado Blues Society.

The Fitzkes encouraged Voltage 85 to perform at the International Blues Challenge (IBC) in the youth band category representing the Colorado Blues Society.

However, right before the IBC, Voltage 85's guitarist and bassist were unable to continue their tenures with the band, and the Allisons recruited NHS alumnus Jude Dow-Hygelund, who plays keyboards, to join the group.

"I met Jude because he went to Niwot (High School) and we had played together," Dakota explained.

The IBC is based in Memphis, Tennessee, and this year's challenge took place on the historic Beale Street from Jan. 24 through Jan. 28. Blues musicians and groups globally flocked to the event, which was exciting for the Allisons.

The IBC is not a typical music festival where crowds go to see bands. Instead, Dakota described it as a festival mostly for musicians. The youth band category competition was a unique experience for Voltage 85. One of the most valuable results was that they were able to receive constructive feedback from a panel of judges, which often included professional musicians.

"Tennessee was awesome," agreed Jasper. "The most exciting part is being able to play in all these various locations...[and] playing for people who appreciate music and can give you advice."

The trio performed at the Hard Rock Cafe and at the BB King Blues Club in Memphis.

Both Allisons hope to pursue their interest in music and performance in the future, and advise young, aspiring musicians to pursue their passion for it.

"Keep doing it," Jasper said. "Music provides a lot of great opportunities and experiences, and is something that opens up your life to many more."

You can stay up to date with Voltage 85 on Facebook and Instagram at @Voltage85Band.