Batch 22!
Mike Racer, Andrew Sage, John Murphy, Kris Bergmann, Micheal Shoemaker and Dave Bell Build Connections Through Music with BATCH22!
"Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to
everything." – Plato
What do you get when six individuals who love making music come together? A band!
Meet Andrew Sage (lead guitarist from Canada), John Murphy (keyboardist, vocalist, and
occasional guitarist from England), Mike Racer (drummer from Ohio), Kris Bergmann (lead
singer from Illinois), Michael Schomaker (lead guitarist), and Dave Bell (bassist). Together, they
form a band called BATCH22 that has brought many people joy as they play cover songs that
evoke feelings of nostalgia for their listeners.
How did they start?
“John, Dave, and Andrew started playing casually at first, and then Kris and I were playing
randomly at a progressive dinner party, and the other three were there and added us,” says
Mike. “I'm not sure why as we were pretty rough that night,” he laughs. Dave knew Michael’s
guitar skills. “He added him to solidify the six of us,” says Mike. “He’s a phenomenal musician,”
adds John.
John, Chris, Mike, and Andrew are all long-time Ruby Hill residents. “I came here with my wife
Liz and our four kids in 2001,” says John. “We’ve been here a long time and it’s been a great
place to grow up.” Dave Bell, an orthopedic surgeon, lives down in Pleasanton.
With 19 kids and three dogs between them, BATCH22 was humorously nicknamed as a nod to
their collective lives. “What’s so fun now is that it’s come full circle,” John explains. “Over 20
years ago, we played at Kris’s daughter Alyssa’s kindergarten event. This year, she introduced
us at the Ruby Hill Christmas event. Now, all the kids and their friends are the life and soul of
the party.”
Fun for Everyone
This band of six only plays cover songs as they are all a bit busy with their day jobs.
BATCH22 specializes in cover songs with an edgy, danceable vibe. “We’re not a wedding band,”
clarifies John. “We focus on groovy, fun songs—everything from Red Hot Chili Peppers and
Blink-182 to classic hits by Stevie Ray Vaughan and Blondie.” Their repertoire spans genres,
mixing British rock influences like U2 with classic rock and even some country hits. “We love
The Black Keys, Cake, and a bit of Noah Kahan too,” he adds.
“What motivates us is seeing all our friends and kids having such fun,” comments Mike. Getting
folks together who don’t always get to see each other is such a treat for them.
If you want to hear them for yourselves, check them out at the annual Christmas bash at the
Club. “It’s convenient and easy for folks to get to,” points out Mike. They used to play at the
Pleasanton Hotel until it closed several years ago. Their proudest accomplishment as a band
was when they played the Young Presidents’ Party in Napa many years ago.
With busy schedules, BATCH22 doesn’t rehearse weekly. “God bless Mike and his wife Lori,”
says John. “We practice at their place and ramp up rehearsals about three months before a
gig.” Despite limited practice time, their performances are polished and energetic.
BATCH22’s music isn’t just for the older crowd—it’s a multi-generational affair. “Our direct
friends love to dance, but it’s the next generation that’s really bringing the energy now,” John
notes. “The 20-somethings are taking the lead and rocking out to the songs.”
What’s Next?
While BATCH22’s focus remains on their annual performances, they’re open to new
opportunities that allow them to connect with their community. “We’re thinking about playing
a few smaller, less intense shows in 2025, but we’ll see,” says Mike.
Through music, Mike, Andrew, John, Kris, Micheal, and Dave have built lasting bonds—not just
with each other, but with everyone who has had the privilege of listening to their
performances. Their friendships and camaraderie have stood the test of time!
It’s more than music to this group of six. It’s about connection, celebration, and making
happiness for others! As John says, “It’s a great way to come back together and have a good
time.”