Evan Purcell

Evan Purcell sings, plays guitar, and writes the songs that drive The Big Hello. Since moving to the Pacific Northwest in 1980, he has been a fixture in the regional music scene, performing in a long list of notable bands including Tacoma punk pioneers Natural Causes, Mojo Skill, The Prairie Dogs, and Ryan Purcell and the Last Round. Along the way, he earned Weekly Volcano readers' awards for Best Guitarist and Best Singer/Songwriter in 2009 and 2010.

As a solo artist, Purcell has released three albums, most recently How the Wind Informs the Wing (2025), available on all major streaming platforms. Drawing inspiration from old folk records, dive bars, and guitar-circle singalongs, he crafts songs that are equal parts poetic and raw, with melodies that stick and lyrics that linger long after the night's over and the bottle is empty.

Formed following the release of Purcell's second solo album, The Big Hello has spent the past two years bringing those songs to life on stage with a full-band sound built on collaboration, chemistry, and years of Northwest musical experience.

The Band

Dave Dickerson – Bass
Dave has played with a wide range of Northwest bands, including The Twang Junkies, The Dirt Angels, The Woodies, and The Bog Hoppers. In The Big Hello, he provides the foundation and groove while contributing to the band's collaborative approach to arranging and songwriting.

David Hudson – Drums
A longtime fixture of the Puget Sound music scene, David brings more than 35 years of experience behind the kit. He is also part of LTD Presents, a Tacoma-based music production company. His steady, dynamic drumming helps anchor The Big Hello's sound.

Doug Mackey – Guitar & Vocals
Doug fronted the acclaimed Tacoma band Mr. Blackwatch, plays drums with Kills Across the River, and operates Moon Yard Recording Studio. In The Big Hello, he adds layers of stereo guitar, vocal harmonies, and atmospheric textures that help shape the band's sonic landscape.

Together, The Big Hello blends roots rock, folk, Americana, and guitar-driven Northwest rock into a sound that feels both familiar and fresh—songs built for listening, singing along, and finding something of yourself in the stories.