To achieve ever-new levels of popularity on the Central Coast has never been the goal of Oasis, a profoundly accomplished and versatile five-man band. And yet, winning the esteem of men, women and children from Santa Barbara through San Simeon has been the natural outcome of the band's unique musical style and entertaining presentation. The seasoned musicians that play a steady stream of festivals, special events, company parties and weddings claim that they simply love what they are doing. "We can't help putting our whole heart into each show," points out band manager and bassist ED HARRIS, in regards to the group's enthusiasm. "Perhaps, in our favor, is our total enjoyment of a full range of music, our love for each audience we get to entertain, and a very close bond with one another as a band." From Big Band to Big Chill, the five musicians deliver familiar tunes from Classic Swing (30's and 40's), Golden Oldies (50's and 60's), Jazz Classics, Rhythm and Blues, Contemporary Hits, as well as Country and Western. "Our name, Oasis, explains our mission as a band," says Harris, a professional in his art since high school. "We simply want to provide refreshment and an eclectic range of music that carries people -- of all ages -- away." The collective musical experience of each Oasis member speaks volumes about the level of accomplishment this 1985-born-band presently enjoys. DAVE BRADY, vocals and drums, started playing when he was 10 years old. Majoring in music in college, he is a published author, composer, arranger and vibraphonist who has played with jazz legend Lionel Hampton. "To quote Duke Ellington," says Brady, "'music is my mistress'." On keyboards and vocals is DAN MURRY. A former New York actor, a participant in a road band for five years, and now with Oasis, this musician speculates that his band is well received "because of the professional skills of each band member as well as the mature and mutual respect between us. And this solid bond seems to grow stronger over time." Majoring in music in college, playing a host of clubs to support his education, and now teaching music to elementary through high school students in Atascadero, FRANK GARY is "in love with my profession as a musician." With Oasis, Frank Gary is a master on the sax -- soprano, tenor and also. Further, he pinpoints another reason for his band's ability to reach all listeners regardless of age, race, social status, or profession: "Music is our work," he says. "We take it seriously. And we have fun with it. To set the stage, we dress in appropriate, uniform style. Sometimes that's a tux. Sometimes more casual attire is called for." WILLIE KLEARMAN, guitar and vocals, has been playing music since age 13. Blues, Jazz, and Bluegrass tunes are his favorite styles. "Each of the guys in Oasis have strengths in different types of music," he points out. "It's the variety that we bring to the band that makes us so able to please our audience." It is KCBX Public Radio general manager Frank Lanzone that best sums up the popularity that surrounds the Oasis five-some: "The collective talent, versatility and showmanship of Oasis is a major reason given by many returning guests to our Wine Classic."   For more information about Oasis, call Ed Harris at (805) 541-8891.