Biographies

last call

Meet The Band

Alise Kosmicki

lead Vocalist

Stan (stantana) Stapleton

Lead guitar/vocals

Rick Pickett

Bassist/vocals

Brian Bucenec

keyboards/vocals

mIke Dunne

Drummer

Alise Kosmicki

Lead Vocals

Alise’s love for music began at an early age when it was introduced by her parents, who believed that music was just as important as learning to read.  She sang in her church choir throughout middle school, then joined a rock-n-roll band, shortly after high school, which played at several hot spots in Newport Beach, California and the surrounding areas. 

In 2004, Alise entered a singing/talent contest in Denver, Colorado, called, “The K5K Challenge” which hosted 500 contestants over the course of 12 weeks and scored 4th Place in the finale. In 2005, Alise began performing a solo act for Retirement Homes, Weddings and Private Events and started her own Disc Jockey/Karaoke Business, which she still runs today. 

In 2010, she joined a 5-piece variety cover band, called, “Rare Heat” who regularly rocked the house at several popular venues in the Denver metro area, such as, GI Jodi’s, Q’s Pub, Chatfield’s Bar & Grill, The Walnut Room and The APEX Park Summer Concert Series. After the band parted ways, Alise and Bill Burnside (The former bass player from Rare Heat) stayed together to form, “Mr. & Soul Sister” - an acoustic Duo with sultry rhythms and tight harmonies. They too, performed at several venues around west Denver and were featured on the cover of the Denver Post in 2012. 

In 2018, Alise sang as a fill-in lead for a band, which is how she met Stan Stapleton (Last Call’s Lead Guitarist) and in late 2023, they formed, “Last Call” - a Variety Dance Band. Alise is an accomplished vocalist with a great sound for many styles of music, but nothing describes her better than, “Soul Sister.”  From Etta James to Janis Joplin and Aretha Franklin to Alicia Keys…  Blues, Rock, Funk and everywhere in between…  Alise will grace the stage with a rich and powerful performance!

STAN "STANTANA" STAPLETON

Lead GUITAR/Vocals

Stan Stapleton, known professionally as, "Stantana” is a brilliant guitarist whose sound draws from R&B, Funk, Soul, Rock, Jazz, and Jazz Fusion. 
Stan’s began playing music at a young age, since he was raised by a family of professional musicians, including his mother, father, aunts & uncles, who all shared the same passion.  Stan’s talent developed with an early appreciation for rhythm, melody, and expressive guitar playing.

Over the years, Stan has performed as a lead guitarist in numerous rock bands and earned recognition for his work in a Santana tribute band, bringing powerful performances and soulful improvisation to audiences. His style combines the energy of rock with the rich textures of jazz and the groove of funk and soul, creating a distinctive musical voice.

Having spent decades performing across Florida, Texas, St. Louis, and Denver, Stan has built a reputation as a seasoned musician dedicated to connecting with audiences through passionate and dynamic live performances. Whether delivering soaring lead lines, smooth melodic phrasing, or jazz-inspired improvisations, he continues to celebrate the universal language of music and the influences that shaped his journey.

RICK PICKETT

BASS/Vocals

Rick Pickett has had an unwavering passion for music since he was a child and has been playing the bass for over 55 years.  He has experience playing multiple genres, such as, Rock, Blues, Motown, Funk, Reggae and Country and has laid down the groove at countless performances in the Denver area.

Rick’s approach too bass has been heavily influenced by some of the instruments most iconic players, including Jaco Pastorious, whose creativity and technical mastery redefined modern bass playing; James Jamerson, whose legendary grooves helped shape the sound of Motown; Bootsy Collins with his infectious funk style; and Victor Wooden, whose innovation and musicianship continues to inspire bassist around the world.

Rick has developed a style that brings personality and energy to every note with the ability to blend seamlessly within a variety of musical settings. His philosophy has always been to lock in with the drummer, support the band and keep the people moving. Rick is a well-respected musician, whose commitment and team playing efforts have earned him an honorable reputation, both on and off the stage. 

He continues to play with the same enthusiasm & dedication that started his musical journey long ago and proves that a great groove never gets old.

BRIAN BUCENEC

KEYBOARDS/Vocals

Brian grew up in New Jersey and began taking classical piano lessons at the age of 7, which he continued until the age of 18. He sang in the Boys Choir throughout middle school, then joined a folk-rock band after high school. His passion for music continued through college, where he got involved with several musical workshops which earned him a degree in Fine Arts from Ramapo College of New Jersey. 

He got married after college and moved to Boulder, CO – then joined a successful classic rock band called, “The Fifth Jack,” which played at multiple venues in the Boulder & Denver areas for 8 years.  After the Band parted ways, he joined a funk, soul & rock band called, “PJ Zahn” which actively played Gigs for about 10 years…  Then joined, “Last Call” in 2024.

Brian is a talented keyboardist, with a unique quality of blending jazz, funk, rock & blues with soulful improvisation and intricate arrangements. He continues to thrive in contemporary musical endeavors and has also had the privilege of accompanying blues singer, Hazel Miller several times, when needed.

MIKE DUNNE

DRUMS

Mike grew up in New York City and began playing the drums when he was 16 years old. Mike is a dynamic drummer, with the ability to play a variety of genres, such as rock, rhythm & blues, funk, jazz, and pop. He has played for multiple bands and has performed at several NY venues, including CBGB’s and BB King’s Blues Club.

With his powerful grooves and technical precision, Mike delivers the unmistakable pulse that defines the band’s unique sound. Drawing inspiration from the great masters of classic R&B and funk, he combines style and musicality to create rhythms that are both compelling and danceable. With a deep appreciation for soulful expression and live performance, Mike provides the foundation that drives the band while bringing energy, passion, and authenticity to every show.

oUR sERVICES

Last Call provides premium live music for venues and events of all sizes throughout Denver and the surrounding regions. Built to deliver high-energy performances, the band is available to headline wedding receptions, outdoor festivals, corporate events, private parties, and galas, while also bringing live entertainment to local bars, taverns, pubs, and restaurants. Equipped with professional sound production and a diverse setlist spanning multiple genres, the ensemble scales their performance to match the exact atmosphere and volume your space demands. From a packed dance floor at a wedding to a lively night at a local pub, Last Call guarantees a seamless and professional musical experience.

Live in aRVADA

The variety dance band Last Call is bringing their high-energy mix of Motown, R&B, and funk to Rockabillies in Arvada on December 4th for a rockin’ night of non-stop dancing.

More Info: No Cover Charge

Live in Castle Rock

Get ready for a hauntingly high-energy night as variety dance band Last Call conjures up a wicked mix of Motown, R&B, and funk at 105 W Brewing Company in Colorado Springs this Halloween.

More Info: No Cover Charge

Live in COLORADO SPRINGS

The high-energy variety dance band Last Call is bringing their vibrant mix of Motown, R&B, and funk to 105 W Brewing Company in Colorado Springs on October 3rd.

More Info: No Cover Charge

Live in Castle Pines

Ignite your Independence Day weekend at Pines Bar & Grill! We are bringing the ultimate variety dance party to Castle Pines for America’s historic 250th birthday. Bring your dancing shoes for a night of legendary anthems and non-stop grooves.

More Info: No Cover Charge