Crooked Counsel

Crooked Counsel has been part of the Gainesville music scene since 1994, when lead vocalist Shuri Pass formed the band as Santa Fe. After a brief pause, they reemerged as Crooked Counsel, fully embracing classic rock. The name reflects the band’s history—keyboardist John Middleton is a practicing attorney, and former drummer Tim Sellers, who helped shape their sound before his passing in 2016, was a substance abuse counselor. While the lineup has changed over the years, their commitment to strong musicianship and crowd-pleasing rock remains.

Today, Crooked Counsel features Donnie Ray Henley on drums, bassist Kenny, who has eclectic musical interests, and lead guitarist Rick Hutton, a seasoned performer who shares vocal duties. Shuri’s powerful voice transcends genres, drawing comparisons to Janis Joplin. With a diverse repertoire, Crooked Counsel delivers an energetic classic rock experience that engages audiences and fills dance floors.