Top-40 group assembled by promoter Charlie Steinmetz. They were seen at many school dances, proms, and clubs. Also appeared frequently at Club Brandy in Elkridge.
Patch consisted of guitarist Don Lassahn (formerly of Nicky C & the Chateaux, Bleu Lights, Raven, Jeremiah). Don was the only member to stay with the group throughout their entire history. Lead singer Wayne Penczek (ex-Outlaws, Deltas, McKeever) was with the band 1973-76, then returning during 1978-84. The other original members were Steve Azola (bass), Don Gunter (drums ex-Deltas), Dave Burgess (keyboards ex-Orange Wedge). Burgess left the group in 1974 joining Flywheel and was replaced with Anthony Villa (ex-Bitter Blue). Azola moved to California in ‘75 and was replaced with bassist Rick Dempsey (ex-Saturday). In 1976 Wayne Penczek and Jerry Haebler (drums ex-Hour Glass) headed to Houston, Texas where they formed a band called Skylake. They returned two years later. Wayne resumed his position as lead vocalist while Jerry joined a band called Nantucket. Gunter eventually moved on and Haebler joined Patch on drums (‘81-84).
Patch photos above from Towson State College 1973
The group became known as Bits & Pieces in 1983. Penczek continued his position as lead singer. Other member changes took place as Steve Lentkowski (bass ex-Fragile) replaced Dempsey. In 1984 Andy Hollis took over for Haebler on drums while Jim Foxwell (ex-Baker Street, Bits n’ Pieces) took over for Villa on keyboards. Throughout the last couple of years, the group featured lead female vocalists Judy Schulmeyer (‘84-85 ex-Legal Tender), Renee’ (‘85-87), Jeannie Wonderer (’87-90).
Wonderer, Lassahn, Lentkowski, Foxwell, and Hollis went on to join Wise Guise… Villa later played for the fusion band Jazz Happens. In the ‘00s Penczek performed as part of a duo called Wize Gize. Lentkowski was later with Jig Saw. Haebler was with the Jay Henley Band.
