About us
Rust Neil Young Tribute is the inspiration of Lead Vocalist/Guitarist Mark DeCaro, a long-time Neil Young fan and enthusiast of Neil’s unique songwriting and guitar style. Based out of Philadelphia, he has assembled a group of talented veteran musicians that comprise Rust. The Band recreates the Acoustic and Electric sound that is unique to Neil Young. The result is a memorable experience that resembles a Neil Young & Crazy Horse live show, along with many of his classic studio acoustic compositions.
Performing all of the great songs you want to hear from Neil’s catalog, they take you from his early work in the 60's through his more recent releases. Rust’s distinctive on-stage collaboration and musicianship is part of every live performance. Since 2012, Rust has performed for many delighted audiences, and has developed a reputation as one of the finest Neil Young Tribute acts in the nation.
Their setlist is a journey through Neil Young's catalog, a mix of acoustic folk and electric rock. They'd start with a mellow tune like "Harvest Moon," Mark's voice a gentle caress over the quiet strumming of his guitar. Then, they'd crank up the volume and tear into "Cinnamon Girl," the electric guitars snarling and the drums pounding.
As the band's founder and frontman, Mark channels the distinctive voice of Neil Young with a gravelly, soulful delivery that feels both familiar and deeply personal. He discovered Young's music in his youth, and it has been a guiding light ever since. Mark's leadership and passion ensure every setlist is a journey through Young's most cherished works, from the acoustic quiet of "Old Man" to the blistering roar of "Rockin' in the Free World". His harmonica adds that essential, mournful cry that every fan expects.
Lead Vocals / Guitar
Mark DeCaro
Paula McWhorter
Vocals
A true talent with a powerful and beautiful voice, Paula provides the ethereal harmonies that are essential to the Neil Young era songs and so many of Neil Young's solo acoustic gems. Beyond her musical gifts, her charisma and stage presence add a polished, professional quality to the band's performances, capturing the audience's attention and adding a touch of classic rock and roll glamour.
Dan Ehart
Vocals / Guitar
The band's resident perfectionist and electric showman, Dan is a force of nature on lead guitar. He can recreate the iconic feedback-drenched solos of "Like a Hurricane" with blistering authenticity, but if a note is out of place, he'll be the first to let you know. Despite his intense focus, Dan's passion for the performance shines through, delivering the kind of onstage energy that makes each show an unforgettable experience.
The quiet engine room of the band, Matt provides the solid, grounding foundation for the group's expansive sound. A true professional, he is always ready to accommodate suggestions and changes, putting the band's collective vision first. Matt's steady, unflashy presence anchors the music, allowing his bandmates to shine while ensuring every note serves the song.
Matt Lannen
Bass
Dave Hoch
Keyboards
Dave is the unassuming backbone of the ensemble, seamlessly binding arrangements with his masterful Hammond organ swells and precise piano parts that add depth and warmth to the sonic landscape. With unwavering dedication, he approaches each note with meticulous care, ensuring every chord resonates with purpose, Dave’s focused effort and earnest desire to perfect every detail make him an indispensable part of the group, from subtle beauty to powerful intensity, making him the oneiroi of their cohesive sound.
Doug Rae
Drums
Doug is the rhythmic anchor, a veteran drummer who grew up with Neil Young's records spinning on the turntable. His decades of experience in diverse musical projects give him the dynamic range needed to switch from the delicate, brush-driven rhythms of "Harvest Moon" to the thunderous, pulse of a Crazy Horse epic. For Doug, playing Neil's music is a return to his roots, and his love for the material is evident in every beat.
Eric becomes an extension of his instrument once the lights go up. His pedal steel work is nothing short of masterful, providing the signature, weeping country-rock flourishes that define so much of Young's classic material. Eric’s playing on songs like "Harvest" and "Comes a Time" adds a layer of sublime texture and emotion, demonstrating a quiet virtuosity that speaks volumes.
Eric Miller
Pedal Steel