The Band

Midwest Duplex is the combined vision of longtime friends and collaborators, Jackson Frosch and Craig Buckner. Their music is a product of their shared experiences and diverse influences. It can best be described as a fusion made up of a blend of Jazz, Funk, R&B, and Rock. The interweaving nature of Jackson and Craig’s playing paired with their high energy and enthusiasm make this guitar and drum duo something that any audience member can enjoy.

Jackson Frosch

Jackson Frosch is a guitarist, composer, and educator. He graduated from Northern Illinois University with a M.M. in Jazz Studies in 2021. His roots are in jazz and blues with influences like Sonny Rollins, Jim Hall, and Lightnin' Hopkins. Jackson's goal is to share his love and enthusiasm for music with the people around him both onstage and in the classroom. He feels lucky to have performed and collaborated with many great musicians during his career, including Craig Buckner whom he co-founded Midwest Duplex with. Outside of music, Jackson enjoys photography, reading, and spending time outdoors.

Gear: Guitar - Ibanez George Benson GB10SE | Strings - D’Angelico Electrozinc 11-49 | Pedals - Boss OC-3, MXR Super Badass ‘78 Distortion, Walrus Audio Julia, TC Electronic Flashback II, Earthquaker Devices Dispatch Master, DigiTech JamMan Stereo | Amp - Fender Blues Junior

Craig Buckner

Craig Buckner is a drummer, educator, and a very, very tall guy (6’ 7”). He graduated from DePaul University Chicago with a M.M. in Jazz Studies in 2021. Throughout his studies in music, he has always had an attraction to music education and sought out any teaching opportunity available. Craig holds the philosophy of preparing students for success by sharing the experience and knowledge gained through years of practice and performance. Craig Buckner has also had his various transcriptions featured in the well-known Chicago-based jazz magazine DownBeat. By day, he works as the Manager of Sales and Marketing at Independent Drum Lab in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and by night, he’s the drummer for your favorite band, Midwest Duplex.

Gear: Drums - Ludwig Classic Maple Kit 12/14/18, Ludwig Acrolite Snare Drum 14x5” | Cymbals - Bosphorus 14” Master Hi-hats, Turkish 19” Cappadocia Crash, Turkish 21” Dark Hammer Ride, Turkish 22” 25th Anniversary Ride | Heads - Remo Coated/Clear Ambassador, Remo Clear Powerstroke 3 | Sticks - Vic Firth Modern Jazz Collection 2