Project 9
High energy D.I.Y. Rock
Project 9 is a high-energy alt-rock band from the Lehigh Valley, PA, built on an unexpected origin story. Before forming Project 9, every member had already been through eight bands of their own—a coincidence so unlikely it became the band’s identity and namesake.
Blending modern alternative rock with classic-rock grit, Project 9 delivers a punchy, melodic, and emotionally charged sound anchored by explosive live energy. Fronted by a classically trained vocalist and backed by seasoned musicians with deep performing roots, the band brings a dynamic stage presence that turns every show into a full-throttle experience.
Their debut album, Hot Mess, showcases the band’s range—from anthemic choruses to driving guitar work—and continues to gain traction across streaming platforms. Project 9 has already made noise in their region, from winning competitions, performing at multiple festivals, and headlining their own album release concert.
Whether performing original rock anthems or electrifying crowds with high-impact cover sets, Project 9 is built for the stage. With their collective experience and undeniable chemistry, the band is primed for larger lineups, festival slots, and support opportunities alongside major touring acts. 9th time's a charm.
Rebecca Ripley
Vocals
Rebecca Ripley is a ball of pure energy on stage... not just a singer but a performer. The daughter of a DJ/MC dad and choir singer mom, she was completely immersed in music from childhood. Beginning her formal training in classical techniques at Charter High School for the Arts in Bethlehem, then adding contemporary styles while attending Rider and Moravian Universities for vocal performance, her voice blends it all together and bursts onto the mic. She's been part of a number of bands including her family band, Peaceful Chaos from Above, UBACE, and just about every choir that would fit into her schedule before joining Project 9 in 2022.
Russell Krutisia
Guitars
Born and raised in Morris County NJ, rock and roll has been a staple in Russell's life since hearing AC/DC booming from a jukebox at age 9. Then fully diving into in music, he took up the trumpet in school before adding the drums, and eventually landing on the guitar. Taking every opportunity to learn, he joined school choirs and musicals in both performing and production, forging the path he's on for life. Mainly inspired by rock, he continues to push his personal limits by adding keyboards and bass to his skills on the drums and guitar. Coupled with his work in songwriting, producing, and studio engineering, Russell continues gathering tools to explore every style that interests him. He believes it's his job when performing to have more fun than anyone else in the room, so he's always making sure the crowd has the time of their lives at a Project 9 show.
Mike Schuon
Bass
Born and raised in Allentown PA, Mike was introduced to the magnificence of the low-end boom by his bassist stepfather. As a huge fan of heavy music and taking his influence from the greats in his favorite bands like Rush, Iron Maiden, The Who, he's written and recorded original music with grunge, metal, jam, blues, and worship bands around the Lehigh Valley over the years. He's amalgamated all of that experience into a versatile personal style, and polished it into a sound well suited to provide the thump in Project 9. During the day Mike operates his own machining business making precision hardware and fasteners for the automotive, medical and aerospace industries, running bass riffs in his mind while he's at it.