NEWS - NOVEMBER 1, 2026

FIREHOUSE 400 REHEARSALS RELEASED!This album was recorded with two microphones and the band mixed their sound live as they practiced this music for its concert premiere in 1985. Remastering resulted in surprisingly good sound quality that captures the raw power of Stiffwater. The official album would be released five years later (currently being remixed for a 2026 release). Firehouse 400 is often considered the band's best work overall and was consistently well-received when played live. Tape condition artifacts are evident, and songs in development display mistakes, but this remarkable recording preserves Stiffwater's impressive legacy.
LISTEN TO THE ALBUM HERE AT THE STIFFWATER WEB SITE NOW!
THE RUINS - RELEASED OCTOBER 18Stiffwater's 1982 album is available right here at the Stiffwater web site! Listen to it now!See photos from the successful Earth Tour supporting The Ruins album in the BIO SECTION.
MGB - RELEASED OCTOBER 3, 2026The final Stiffwater album, MGB, McKinnis, Goates & Bennett, emulating the iconic title of Emerson, Lake and Palmer (ELP) was finished on September 18th. Hear the new album HERE.
STIFFWATER PROJECT STATUS SEPTEMBER 23, 2026With the completion of the AJP Project, Aaron Johnson has focused his attention on the 2026 STIFFWATER PROJECT. Stiffwater's web site is the focus of the operation. The final album, MGB, was released October 3rd. THE RUINS was released October 18th, and FIREHOUSE 400 REHEARSALS was released November 1st. Remaining albums currently slated for release in 2026 are CYCLE, SPAZZ and DAVID McKINNIS - SOLO. The albums will be posted here and available for free listening via an exclusive Stiffwater You Tube channel.
For more information, scroll down to the discography section, or jump to that section with the TABLE OF CONTENTS LINKS below.
This web site reports developments in real-time and will post updated information concerning the STIFFWATER band often and as soon as events develop.

FIREHOUSE 400 REMASTERING UPDATE 11/1/26Exciting news! The analog recordings have been successfully transfered from the master tapes, which weathered the baking process. According to Audio Park Studios, the masters are in remarkably good shape. Engineer Park Peters commended the quality of the recording given the period. Commendations to David McKinnis and his attention to detail back in 1990. Digital transfer was completed with a good signal intact on all tracks. The remixing process is nearing completion, with preliminary mixes sounding fantastic.
Current research and development into a special presentation for Firehouse 400 is underway. If all goes well, this album's release would be unprecedented. Stay tuned to this web site to learn more as events develop!
More information about the album's history in the DISCOGRAPHY section below!

MGB McKINNIS, GOATES & BENNETT

RELEASED OCTOBER 4, 2026
Drawing on compositions dating back to 1984 and not previously recorded, the band chose to take a relaxed approach to the album's production, which began in 2024. They took their time as schedules permitted in re-writing and rearranging the songs and focused on the technical aspects of achieving the sound they wanted. Keith Goates contributed two songs, and Jim Bennett contributed his first composition, enlisting David's song writing advice and expertise. A second abrstract idea Jim presented for the album's introductory track was developed into reality by Aaron Johnson, who also contributed various keyboard flourishes and effects.
David sadly passed away during the mixing phase. Keith and Jim enlisted Aaron's assistance, fresh from completing the AJP Project, to finish the mixing and mastering process and conduct the album release. The result is a hard rocking, energetic experience with plenty of thought-provoking subjects for the listener to ponder. The sound quality is impeccable, a rarity among today's modern music production trends. The bonus track "Fool," a Stiffwater staple composed by David in 1974 and recorded for a 1982 local LP produced by KPKE radio (complete with vinyl crackle) ends the album as a hidden track, which activates 10 seconds after the final track on the CD format. Album artwork by Stiffwater alumni Mike Kloepfer.
DAVID McKINNIS: Vocals, guitars, keyboards, effects and chief producerKEITH GOATES: Bass guitar, producerJIM BENNETT: Drums, percussion, producer
GUEST - AARON JOHNSON: Keyboards, effects, mixing and mastering production, promotion coordination
LISTEN TO THE NEW ALBUM "MGB"

STIFFWATER MGB SWAG!

Perfect for Stiffwater fans!
$18.99
Only priced one dollar above cost to cover printing expenses and to honor David and the Stiffwater band's legacy.
ORDER MGB T-SHIRT HERE
1980s STIFFWATER T-SHIRT DESIGN

WELCOME TO THE STIFFWATER WEB SITE

MEMBER GALLERY & BIOS

DISCOGRAPHY

VIDEOS

STIFFWATER FAMILY TREE TIMELINE

ARTWORK PROMOTION

THE AJP PROJECT

WELCOME TO THE STIFFWATER WEB SITE

In 1973 at the age of 14, Mike Kloepfer formed a jazz band called Sidewinder, which would evolve into a formidable progressive rock entity that would dominate the local music scene through the rest of the decade, as well as thrive in a variety of music projects throughout the 80s. That band was Stiffwater, and this web site has been created to celebrate their impressive history and musical legacy.
Like any band, there have been personnel changes, but unlike most bands, the nucleus has been steady and has stayed connected throughout the fifty years that have passed. Members have supported each other's endeavors through the years, and numerous bands have sprung from the fertile ground Stiffwater established. This web site celebrates these accomplishments and history.
PHOTO: Founding members of Stiffwater, embarking on a progressive rock journey: David McKinnis (lead vocals & guitar), Mike Kloepfer (guitar, keyboards), Kevin Goates (bass), Aaron Johnson (guitars, vocals, keyboards), Ken Herfert (drums, percussion).

GETTING STARTED IN THE THE 1970s

After recruiting Stone Free guitarist Aaron Johnson (18 at the time and oldest in the group), to play lead guitar, Stiffwater's popularity grew quickly. They were a busy band, playing high school dances and other events. Amplifiers back then were big and bulky, like moving furniture, so the band quickly became known for their "mountain of equipment." Three vehicles were needed to transport the gear. Essentially a bunch of kids, covers of popular tunes and their own crafted songs became well-known, resulting in numerous return engagements. Stiffwater was an impressive operation considering it was run by a group of high schoolers. PHOTO: Newspaper publication, Dunstan Junior High School, Lakewood, Colorado, 1973. David McKinnis, Mike Kloepfer, Ken Herfert, Kevin Goates, Aaron Johnson

LIVE PERFORMANCES AND RECORDING

Stiffwater soon excelled at live performances. A Stiffwater show was a spectacle to behold and that reputation propelled the band's success. The band also composed their own songs, emulating their mentors such as Yes, Genesis, Emerson Lake and Palmer and other well-known musical acts of the era. Studio time was expensive in bringing their musical pieces to reality. This inspired the band to start recording on their own, decades before home recording options for musicians would even be a notion. This has resulted in an impressive catalog of recordings totaling many listening hours.
During this time the musical prowess of each member improved, which was reflected in the attention to detail and complexity of their own compositions. Three years after becoming a rock band, Stiffwater had produced their extensive first recording "Armageddon Gold" and had performed the nearly 2-hour epic live (photo as the overture is played).
Other life obligations would affect the band, beginning with a change of drummers as Ken Herfert departed for college. His replacement was Stone Free drummer Ron Ardia (also in photo), who would play in the band off and on until 1990. The band would see a revolving door of drummers, including drummers Scott Blumenreich and Pete Maldonado for about a year. Jim Bennett played on The Ruins album in 1982 (he played in other bands and with Aaron Johnson and Mike Kloepfer in Voyager in 1984 and 2022).
Bass players would alternate between brothers Kevin and Keith Goates, as well as Scotte Burns, who would go on to form folk band Ironwood Rain with Mike Kloepfer and JJ Maestas in the 2010s. David McKinnis and Mike Kloepfer would play keyboards as well. Richard Hasse was Stiffwater's first short-lived keyboardist, but most keyboard duties were handled by Aaron Johnson out of neccesity as the band's desire to broaden its musical scope increased through the years. From then on a major component of the Stiffwater sound was keyboards. This development would be a major influence in Aaron's own music career beyond Stiffwater, enabling his ability as an arranger and developing a broad musical pallet.
Stiffwater members continue their relationships to this day, staying connected as lifelong friends, a rare situation among rock bands.
PHOTO: Performing Armageddon Gold live in 1975.

LATE 70s

By the late 70s the band had evolved into an impressively tight musical sensation, and recording output was in the volumes. Some of the band's best compositions emerged in this time period. Circumstances would call for a hiatus and an uncertainty concerning direction in 1978. Aaron would embark on his own musical journey with his band mates in tow at given times. Under David McKinnis leadership, Stiffwater would reconvene in the 80s with another highly productive and successful period.
PHOTO: Keith Goates, Aaron Johnson, Ron Ardia, David McKinnis on the road in Colorado, circa 1976.

1980s

Still established as one of the region's best local bands, Stiffwater continued to play live, although their emphasis was on recording and supporting those efforts with concerts as the events presented themselves. The 80s was a major time period in terms of productivity and the band's evolution. David McKinnis became the band's leader and focal point as main singer and composer, turning over lead guitar duties to Kevin Goates, whose brother Keith was now on rhythm guitar, Mike Kloepfer would provide guitar and keyboard work, and Scotte Burns held the bass role. Blessed with talented drummers through the years, Stiffwater enjoyed the rapidly developing technical prowess of Jim Bennett.
Stiffwater founder Mike Kloepfer would also form other successful live acts in this time period, including Mister E, Riff Rats and Voyager, in which members would participate in and support in various ways. Members would also engage in other projects outside the band, including Aaron Johnson's solo endeavors.
PHOTO: Scotte Burns and David McKinnis perform "The Ruins" live.

1990s

By the end of the 80s the band had completed a number of albums and shows with shifting iterations of members depending on a given project. Aaron Johnson was pursuing his successful solo career with increasing intensity, but made sure to reunite with the band in the mid 80s and again in 1991 to complete an ambitious project 14 years in the making entitled "Firehouse 400," another sci-fi concept epic that had been on the band's desired creative itinerary for a long time. The piece was performed live in 1985 and the album was finally recorded and followed by live performances in 1991 (with a CD release in 2009).
PHOTO: The band celebrates its 20th anniversary in 1993. Kevin Goates, Jim Bennett, Aaron Johnson, Keith Goates, Scotte Burns, David McKinnis. Sitting: Mike Kloepfer, Ron Ardia.

2000s TO THE PRESENT

Stiffwater would take more time off in the following years. During that time, through starts and stops, a project would evolve into a CD release entitled "Sp@zz," with David McKinnis on vocals, guitar and keyboards, Kevin Goates on bass, Keith Goates on guitar and Jim Bennett on drums and percussion. The band would continue to gather and dabble, with brief appearances through 2012. David McKinnis, Jim Bennett and Jeff Rhodes comprised a three-piece Stiffwater during this time. A long hiatus would follow until the 2026 album, MGB, which was released October 3rd. With the passing of David McKinnis in June of 2026, the band has decided MGB is the last official Stiffwater album.
PHOTO: Mike Kloepfer's fabulous promo art for the band's "Ruins" tour in the 1980s. Left to right: Mike Kloepfer, Scotte Burns, Jim Bennett, David McKinnis, Kevin Goates and Keith Goates.

MEMBER GALLERY & BIOS

DAVID McKINNIS

Stiffwater lead singer and guitarist David McKinnis passed away on June 9th at the age of 67 after a two year battle with cancer. David joined the Sidewinder Jazz Band founded by Mike Kloepfer in 1973. He was just 15 years old. The band switched to a rock and roll format and changed its name to Stiffwater just before recruiting Aaron Johnson to play lead guitar. Together Johnson and McKinnis would become the compositional team that would determine Stiffwater's progressve rock course through its long and productive career.
In late 1978 the two musical compadres relocated to Colorado Springs and recorded their solo albums, each sharing the co-written "20th Century Mountain Man," which was pivotal in an unplanned chaotic brush with fame and fortune. After that harrowing detour, Aaron continued with his solo career and David returned to Denver, briefly playing and singing in a number of bands.

McKinnis reformed Stiffwater in late 1980 and would steer the band through the production of albums including The Ruins, Cycle, Firehouse 400, Spazz and the final album, MGB. Stiffwater would once again have McKinnis encountering local fame and notoriety with demand for numerous live concerts and an appearance on a local radio station's promotional LP. Determined to keep the band's success controlled and on his own terms, McKinnis remained the band's main composer and leader until his passing 46 years later.
David's presence, musical prowess, wisdom and sense of ironic humor is deeply missed by his bandmates. He is survived by his four sisters. A private celebration of his life with family and bandmates took place in September. David's bandmates have since embarked on a mission to make David's amazing music available to the public exclusively through the STIFFWATER web site via the STIFFWATER CHANNEL at You Tube.
PHOTOS: David McKinnis in the recording studio in 1979, working on Aaron Johnson's San Juan Stories. David McKinnis portrait by Mike Kleopfer.

AARON JOHNSON

Following in his dad's footsteps, Aaron Johnson learned trumpet at age 7 and guitar at age 10, and was playing rhythm guitar in a garage band called Stone Free at 16. He was recruited into the Stiffwater band in 1973 for lead guitar duties at age 18. The band encountered extraordinary success. 5 years later, Aaron produced his first solo effort MIDNIGHT MOUNTAIN HOUR, and his massive double-album opus, SAN JUAN STORIES in 1979. His recording career was prolific throughout the 80s, producing DECADE, FINALLY, OVER & OUT, THE EXPERIMENT and ELECTRIC WILDERNESS. In 1984 Aaron played in the successful local band VOYAGER, fronted by female vocalist Malou Stirman with Stiffwater alumnis Mike Kloepfer and Jim Bennett.
During that busy period, Aaron rejoined Stiffwater fresh from their successful "Earth Tour" and CYCLE album to produce a FIREHOUSE 400 live event in 1985, and record the acclaimed FIREHOUSE 400 album in 1990. After a 9 year hiatus, Aaron was commissioned to do the soundtrack album DEEP BLUE in 1999, followed by an EP entitled CATHODE RAYTUBE LAND.
Aaron thought he had retired in 2005, but providential circumstances had other plans in store. Recruited to play lead guitar and do musical arrangements for his Messianic synagogue, Aaron was compelled to reform VOYAGER and recorded their long-awaited album in 2022. That led to the rerecording and full orchestration of his first album with MIDNIGHT MOUNTAIN HOUR REVISITED. This in turn led to Aaron's revisiting his entire career and rereleasing all of his albums in the age of streaming. The successful AJP Project began in 2025 and was completed in 2026, capping off a prolific and productive career in music. As the AJP Project concluded, the STIFFWATER PROJECT began, which led to the creation of this web site and the release of Stiffwater's music catalog on the newly formed AJP label. Aaron was also asked to oversee the mixing and mastering of the final Stiffwater album, MGB, released October 3rd, 2026.
Aaron currently plays bass in the acoustic folk band SPIRIT RIDGE, formed by STIFFWATER founder Mike Kloepfer, with JJ Maestas on lead vocals. A tally of 150 years of musical experience between these three veterans provides a strong foundation for the band, which continues to experience increasing success.

MIKE KLOEPFER

Mike Kloepfer was playing in the Sidewiner jazz band at 12 years of age. From there he founded Stiffwater and boldly entered the burgeoning world of live rock and roll music. After recruiting Aaron Johnson and David McKinnis, being a younger member of the band he formed, Mike found himself on an increasingly wild ride. Stiffwater became a widely known local phenomenon, and the success encountered was unprecedented for a local band at the time.
In 1977 circumstances would have Mike depart the band on his own musical journey, playing in a wide variety of bands in which he would often be the founding member. Along the way saw his skills as a multi-instrumentalist increase much like his long-time music associates David McKinnis and Aaron Johnson. His knowledge of recording increased as well, which would lead him into engineering Aaron Johnson's third album DECADE in 1982, and contributing to Stiffwater's THE RUINS in 1983 and filling in on multiple roles for Stiffwater's Earth tour. Mike played bass and guitar on Aaron Johnson's album FINALLY in 1984, and played that material live in the successful band VOYAGER from 1984 to 1986.
Mike's musical journey would take him to Oregon and Florida. His talent as an artist would also see success, with his work displayed in galleries in New York and Denver. Mike's artwork would also be featured in Stiffwater concerts and promotions, becoming an integral part of his long and productive career. His background in a wide array of genres spans barbershop, folk, pop, hard rock and progressive rock.
In the 2000s Mike founded the successful folk band Ironwood Rain, featuring Stiffwater bassist Scotte Burns on vocals, which would go on to release several CDs. In the 2010s Mike founded the successful acoustic rock band Spirit Ridge with fellow maestro JJ Maestas. With the passing of their percussionist David Sondrup in 2024, Mike was reunited with Stiffwater alumni Aaron Johnson who would fulfill a lifelong ambition and play bass for the band. Mike just recently released an EP of instrumental music reflecting the many genres of his career entitled MIKEY AND THE RUG BEATERS.
MIKEYZMUSIC WEB SITE

KEVIN GOATES

It was Kevin's friend that led him to asking Aaron Johnson to join Stiffwater, and that fateful day took Kevin on a music journey not to be forgotten. Kevin played bass in the successful Stiffwater band until 1977 and returned to that duty in 1982. He would branch out into lead guitar duties for the RUINS and CYCLE albums, and also pursue his interest in photography, contributing his artistic prowess to both Aaron Johnson and Stiffwater productions throughout the 80s.
Kevin's technical knowledge in audio recording is extensive as well. Kevin was a co-producer and composer for Stiffwater's 2002 album Spazz, for wich he returned to his first love, playing the bass guitar. Fellow Stiffwater member Aaron Johnson cites three famous bassists as primary influencers, but his fourth influencer is Kevin Goates.
Kevin also had a career in radiology from which which he recently retired.

KEN HERFERT

Ken Herfert was Stiffwater's first drummer, and he set the standard for all of the drummers that would follow, which was essentially, confident command of the instrument at a level far above what most local drummers could muster. This also meant having an impressively large kit and all of it would be played effectively on a routine basis. Ken's influences in jazz music was an essential foundation in providing the elaborate parts he would be required to perform in Stiffwater. Ken also has keyboard knowledge and played the vibraphone and steel drum for the band as well.
It was Ken who coined the name of the band. During a break from rehearsal, Ken spotted an ice cicle and said,"hey look, it's stiff water." And the name of the band was born and has stuck ever since.
Ken pursued a successful career in chemical engineering that took him all over the country. Upon retiring, he reconnected with his fellow bandmates. He still has his same drum set, it is reportedly in great condition, and he still plays it occasionally.

RON ARDIA

Ron Ardia played drums in which Aaron Johnson played rhythm guitar in a band called Stone Free. With Ken Herfert's departure, Ron was happily drafted into Stiffwater at Johnson's insistence, no audition required. He was a perfect fit for the band. Ron proved himsef capable and up to the task, with his first assignment being the learning and playing all of ARMAGEDDON GOLD live. The band's success was proven through numerous performances and a prolific recording inventory.
Ron's prowess would also be evident on Aaron Johnson's first solo album MIDNIGHT MOUNTAIN HOUR. He would also return on Stiffwater's acclaimed album CYCLE (1984), the FIREHOUSE 400 live project (1985), and the hugely successful Aaron Johnson album ELECTRIC WILDERNESS in 1989. Shortly after that, Ron and Aaron would reunite with Stiffwater once again to record the FIREHOUSE 400 album in 1990.
Throughout his career Ron has played with a number of other bands, usually in the progressive rock or jazz genres. Ron is also a skilled mechanic and restores classic cars.

KEITH GOATES

The younger brother of Kevin Goates. Keith hung around with the band, became a roadie, learned bass and guitar from his big brother, quickly excelled and was offered the bass playing position with his brother's departure in 1976. His prowess increased out of necessity as the band's success grew, and in the process, Keith was becoming a fantastic song writer.
With Stiffwater's reforming in 1981, Keith was brought back on board in the rhythm guitar position. He would return to the bass for FIREHOUSE 400 and the final Stiffwater album MGB. Along the way his excellent song writing skills were evident in songs such as Institution, 184, Look at Me, Professional Moving Targets, 1111 and Blue Riviera. Keith would also become knowledgeable in the technical aspects of recording and remixing, and saving Stiffwater's analog recordings, especially at the conclusion of the band's career.

SCOTTE BURNS

Influenced by Stiffwater's talented bassists, Scotte took up the instrument and excelled at it quickly. The brother of David McKinnis' former sweetheart, Scotte was the obvious choice when the Goates brothers took over electric guitar duties for THE RUINS album and subsequent Earth Tour. During this time Scotte became a talented vocalist and song writer, penning numbers with David such as Glass Cage, Plastic Palace, Execuzone and Ant Farm.
Beyond Stiffwater Scotte would form the successful Ironwood Rain acoustic folk band with Stiffwater founder Mike Kleopfer. Scotte retired from music in 2010, pursuing a career in motivational speaking and he is in demand for his engaging speaking events.
SCOTTE BURNS SPEAKER

JIM BENNETT

A beginning drummer and very green, Jim was taken under Stiffwater's wing and trained to become the monumental drummer we know today. Jim's amazing abilities were sprouting on THE RUINS, and the sudden success that would ensue meant Jim had to up his game and fast. He was then recruited to play drums for Aaron Johnson's album FINALLY, which led into the successful stint in the VOYAGER band.
Jim would then embark on a varied musical journey, playing in country bands, Christian bands and general rock bands. He worked with all kinds of groups and played all kinds of shows. He would return to the Stiffwater fold in the late 90s and play a significant part in producing Stiffwater's album SP@ZZ in 2002. In the years that followed he would play in the band Kaos Konspiracy with lead guitarist Kirk Baumguard and release a CD.
In 2021 he regrouped with VOYAGER to record and release the same-named album in 2022 to much acclaim. Two years later he would reunite with Stiffwater alumnis Keith Goates and David McKinnis to record the band's final album, MGB.
In addition to his music career, Jim is a successful motorcycle mechanic and custom bike specialist who is well-known in the motocross community. His work and innovative designs have been featured in numerous publications around the world.

SCOTT BLUMENREICH

Scott Blumenreich is a talented and powerful drummer hailing from the Bronx. He was recruited with a bulletin board ad by Aaron Johnson to provide the thunderous drumming heard on Johnson's opus, the double LP album SAN JUAN STORIES. Through this connection, David McKinnis recruited Scott to play for Stiffwater in the early 1980s. Scott's abilities were certainly up to the task, but the personal chemistry wasn't right and his tenure in the band was short. Scott would subsequently provide his drumming prowess on Johnson's 1982 album, DECADE.
Scott continued to play drums with a wide variety of bands and musicians, finally reuniting with Aaron Johnson in 2026 for a project that is unspecified at this time.

NEWS ARTICLES

APPEARANCES AND MEMENTOS

TOUR SWAG AND VENUES

EARTH TOUR 1983

20th ANNIVERSARY GATHERING

EARTH TOUR 1983

20th ANNIVERSARY GATHERING

RON ARDIA IS RECRUITED 1975

AMARGEDDON GOLD SESSION

SYNTHESIZERS BECOME STANDARD

BIG DRUM SETS ARE THE NORM

ARMAGEDDON GOLD 1975

DAVID McKINNIS & MIKE KLOEPFER

EVERGREEN 1975

DAVID McKINNIS & AARON JOHNSON

EVERGREEN 1975

AARON JOHNSON PLAYS HIS NATIONAL GUITAR

STIFFWATER 1980

SCOTT BLUMENREICH (left) ON DRUMS

ENJOYING THE FANS

KEN HERFERT GETS A PRESENT FROM ADMIRERS

ENERGY EXPLOSION ON STAGE

AMARGEDDON GOLD CONCERT, 1975

AARON JOHNSON & DAVID McKINNIS 2004

PROMO WITH DRUMMER PETE MALDONADO

ARMAGEDDON GOLD SESSION 1975

REHEARSAL LOCATIONS 1973 & 1975

AARON JOHNSON & MIKE KLOEPFER2017 STIFFWATER PRESERVATION EFFORTARMAGEDDON GOLD CD

KEITH GOATES BALANCING ACT

LAKEWOOD ON PARADE AFTERNOON PERFORMANCE 1976

4 PIECE BAND, 1977

AARON JOHNSON, 1977

KEITH GOATES, DAVID McKINNIS, 1977

RON ARDIA, 1977

DISCOGRAPHY

COMBINATION SALAD

Recorded at the Herfert residence with keyboardist Richard Hasse, this was the band's first attempt at producing their own recording. It "quoted" well-known passages from albums by the favorite bands of the time in a hodge-podge of an extended medley following a rough framework developed by Aaron Johnson. It wasn't very good, but was the necessary initial step toward fostering the band's prolific creativity to come. Richard Hasse's tenure was short lived, as he would be killed in a drug deal gone wrong, which in turn influenced the members to steer clear of the drug scene during the band's formative years.
Recorded on reel tape and 8-track, the master recording was subsequently lost.
AARON JOHNSON: GuitarsDAVID McKINNIS: VocalsKEVIN GOATES: BassMIKE KLOEPFER: GuitarsKEN HERFERT: DrumsRICHARD HASSE: Synthesizer

WHEN THE RAINS COME

It would always rain when Stiffwater was playing a gig. Perhaps it had something to do with their name. A concept album about the life and times of Stiffwater was proposed and started with a number of songs, but it was never finished. The songs would be included on subsequent live recordings. Aaron Johnson has released an album of songs composed during the period but never recorded entitled "When The Rains Came" to finally complete the concept in 2026.
AARON JOHNSON: GuitarsDAVID McKINNIS: VocalsKEVIN GOATES: BassMIKE KLOEPFER: GuitarsKEN HERFERT: Drums

EVERGREEN LIVE 1975

Rescued from Ken Herfert's tape vault, this raucus live recording was transfered from reel-to-reel to CD during the Stiffwater Preservation project in 2017. Covers of Beatles, Rolling Stones, Bachman-Turner Overdrive, Chuck Berry and more included, along with a premier performance of the overture from Armageddon Gold, one of the rowdiest live recordings ever. David McKinnis' first composition "Fool" would become a Stiffwater staple years later and earn the group a position on a compilation album of local bands in the mid 80s. Also included is material from the abandoned When The Rains Come project.
Available on CD in 2017.
AARON JOHNSON: GuitarsDAVID McKINNIS: Vocals, guitarsKEVIN GOATES: BassMIKE KLOEPFER: GuitarsKEN HERFERT: Drums

ARMAGEDDON GOLD50th ANNIVERSARY

Stiffwater's first magnum opus was started in 1974 and completed in 1975, with a subsequent series of performances. Aaron Johnson took up the keyboards and the art of synthesis to complete the concept album's epic vision. Recorded at the Kloepfer estate and resulting in an amazing sound quality given the archaic technology of the time, the album is a marvel to listen to, equivalent to a two record-plus LP. Made available on CD in 2017 as part of the AJP Stiffwater preservation project.
In 2026 the album was put through an updating mastering process with great success, marking it's impressive 50th anniversary. Lyrics to the entire album are below in a collapsible section. Click on the arrow to access the lyrics.
AARON JOHNSON: Guitars & SynthesizerDAVID McKINNIS: Vocals & GuitarsKEVIN GOATES: BassMIKE KLOEPFER: GuitarsKEN HERFERT: Drums

ARMAGEDDON GOLD LYRICS

STIFFWATER

ARMAGEDDON GOLD

DISC 1

270 OVERTURE 1997

THE SYNDROME OF ATROPOS

BIRD OF ILL OMEN

AZRAEL

SKULD

LATE SUMMER

IT WAS THERE A MINUTE AGO

NANCY’S SONG

FALL

WINTER

SPRING

ECLIPSE

MYSTIC JOURNEY

WHERE THE FUTURE LIES

DISC 2

NEW ZEALAND

INDIA

FLIGHT OVER JORDAN

ARMAGEDDON GOLD

STIFFWATER

DAVID McKINNIS: Lead and backing vocals, acoustic and electric guitars, special effects, synthesizer

AARON JOHNSON: Lead and backing vocals, acoustic and electric guitars, synthesizer, special effects

MIKE KLEOPFER: Acoustic and electric guitars, special effects

KEVIN GOATES: Bass, lead and backing vocals, special effects

KEN HERFERT: Drums and percussion, vibraphone, steel drum

Fall, Winter, Spring, New Zealand, India, Armageddon Gold by Aaron Johnson & David McKinnis

Mystic Journey conceived by Aaron Johnson

Flight Over Jordan and Nancy’s Song by Aaron Johnson

The Syndrome of Atropos, Azrael, Bird of Ill Omen and Skuld by Stiffwater.

Where the Future Lies by Kevin Goates, Mike Kleopfer, Ken Herfert and Aaron Johnson

Late Summer and It Was There a Minute Ago by David McKinnis

Armageddon Gold is a 1975 Stiffwater Enterprises production in association with AJP,

270 OVERTURE 1997

THE SYNDROME OF ATROPOS

Our sails unfurled, lay course for homeward shores

With all our travels, we can aide no more

From halls of laughter come forgotten tales of war

As the pendulum of life comes crashing to the floor

Our shining medals, they cannot replace the lives

Of bold and fearless followers who died from strong-wrought knives

Of lookers-on who saw the battle with closed eyes

They’ll never know the valley where our future’s past must lie

Cities lay before us like windblown dunes of sand

Bleak red sky over scorched and war-torn land

Lands we knew have vanished like dust before our eyes

And the warlords demand flags of death beyond where the future lies

BIRD OF ILL OMEN

The bitter stench of evil falls over foreign coasts

Impending dooms-day winds, of roses tortured hosts

Blow through sun-licked towrs of halls of death’s close friend

Screaming to the people of their dark and deadly end

AZRAEL

SKULD

We see our freedom through prisms of the past

New world ay before us-paradise!

Overwhelmed in beauty, we stand in unknown grace

We see our homeland, a strange and different place

LATE SUMMER

IT WAS THERE A MINUTE AGO

We’re on a journey, we found some left

But few of them really trust us

We’ve had a quest that must be fulfilled

So what we need is your trust

We lost it, we lost it, we lost our shining wings and glittering sails

We walked through the trees, we saw their home

A remnant of ascendency

Some of them fled, some of them stayed

To show us all their liking

We lost it, we lost it, we lost our shining wings and glittering sails

After they were through, it was quite a gag

We were tied up for the moment

We talked about a ship of green and blue

With sails to match her likeness

We lost it, we lost it, we lost our shining wings and glittering sails

A ship of blue and green! The said

As we walked through the trees to the valley

We looked to the valley where it once stood proud

But I swear it was there a minute ago!

We lost it, we lost it, we lost our shining wings and glittering sails

NANCY’S SONG

Yesterday I thought you were a product of my mind

Now I know that love and joy we shall find

Turn from plastic people and live the lives that are real

Open our hearts, have nothing to conceal

You lifted me from the darkness of a time

When I was alone, no light to shine

You’re a gift from the stars,

You’ve got the glitter of gold

Reminding me of space aged stories that are told

This is your song, this is my song, we know who we are

We know where we’ve been, we know what we’ve done, but have we ever gone so far?

Are we really what we are?

Is there truth in what we see?

I’m fruitful with questions that abound

Come quickly as our love does astound

Being alone is best to learn the rest of what’s to see

Before long you are here, within you, within me

FALL

Yellow, brown, red-orange leaves are falling to the ground

Cold winds from the north

Loneliness haunts their eyes

Mountain men raid the home, in fear they quickly hide

From strangers never known

Living out their leader’s lies

Barbaric life

Recall our strife

When the world was still our home

We loved the lands where children used to roam

We lived to watch the deadly die

Waiting to see the fall

Bitterness that won’t hold still the heart of jealousy

Is inflamed by the cold

As he tries to hide in the cave

Maybe someday he will learn of life that really is

Aside from fairy tales

And the seasons move with the sun

The moon is gone

Our light shines on

The rivers are chilled like stone

The wind blows in the freezing snow

The trees have died, cold water flows

Waiting to see the fall

WINTER

The snow is falling, icy winds blow

Clouds drifting low through trees on mountain slopes

Warm caves in which we dwell provide sanctuary for us all

Living

Living for today and being thankful that

We’re fed, clothed and blessed with companionship

As if we’re living to see the sun shine

Rise-

Face the loneliness, the darkness

The painful cries of children born white

Hoping for a new day, escaping the darkness of hell

Growing colder with each passing day

We lose count of sunsets and full moons

People grow impatient and hateful

Hunting and fighting over the kill

I confronted a mountain lion

That hungered even more

And it’s man against nature

And man against man

And the snow keeps falling

And the wind keeps blowing

The sun does not shine and there’s no sign

Of spring in the air

Blizzard

Driven nearly to madness we barely manage to survive our own hands

We pray to the sky that winter will end

But no sign

No signs anywhere

No sign

But then

A break in the clouds!

Rays of warmth bathe our pale faces

And we rejoice as the ice is thawed

And everything is fresh and new

Times of trials were to end

And we emerged a new people

With new goals and dreams

Living!

Ah living!

It is so good!

And yes, we’re living for a better world

SPRING

New life has begun

And now everyone

Renews their life again

Springtime is here

Rejoice without fear

The gentle flower has bloomed

The bright sunshine warms, melting the snow

Released from our darkness, attempt at our goals

Raid the homes of thieves who stole what was ours

On our wings we fly through the stars

The time has begun

When we must share

Take in each other’s need

Survive at our best

Withstanding the test

Of hateful lust and greed

Others strive on without a care

Sprong time has come with love in the air

New hopes for man and the future ahead

This day will be forever more

And here now my love

I hold you so close

As if I thought you would go

Like the new spring

And all that it is

You know I love you so

Trials may come, temptation so cruel

More storms ahead on horizons they spew

But like the springtime we all shall endure

And live on forever more

ECLIPSE

MYSTIC JOURNEY

WHERE THE FUTURE LIES

Visions of reality

No longer make any sense

Bound within our dreams

Trying to find a way out

I wonder if the stars will rise

Or the crystal ball will shine

Crystals of our youth are growing

Within our minds

The future lives

The future strives

Hanging on in time

Seeking to strain

The red moon wanes

My blade shines no more

Bearing the scars of war

I wonder if the stars will rise

Or the crystal ball will shine

Crystals of our youth are growing

Within our minds

The future lives

The future strives

Hanging on in time

Medals of glitter and gold

Are pleasures of warm, I’m told

The bells of life toll no more

Dead with the laughter of war

I wonder if the stars will rise

Or the crystal ball will shine

Crystals of our youth are growing

Within our minds

The future lives

The future strives

Hanging on in time

NEW ZEALAND

New Zealand, your beaches shine, warm waters embrace the coast

New Zealand, enchanted lands exist! We love them the most!

We’re sent by haunting voices, telling of the knowledge to be acquired

From those through hate and lust they could not entrust the gold they desired

We touch soft bars of sand, begin our search for keys to the gold

Through jungles and restless drums, discover friends we knew from long ago

Castle walls they stand in paradise and good Darkov owns it all

We rest for day it ends, in comfort we’ll seep behind Medieval walls

So good to see you again my friends, it’s been a long and lonely time

So much to tell, to learn and see, shall we engage in the wine?

You brought your women you met before, through seasons, you tell me so

You roam alone, so good to see you, remain as friends as you go

You say you’ve journeyed through the past, but I wonder what your reasons are

But still you’re welcome in this land of mine, even though your home is the stars

You came alone, so good to see you, rest and love while you may

Paradise; it’s once a life, so live and love throughout the day

Captain Rauchstein, I do presume, break out the wine, prepare the rooms

We’ll celebrate our peace at last, we’ll feast and dance, reminisce our past

I am Rauchstein, you don’t realize, you can’t see through your foolish eyes

I’m trusted so soon, I have a plan, you never know where your enemy stands

We all have sailed across the lonely years, we were losers then but we overcame our fears

We were victorious in our own right, but we must continue on with all our might

We all have sailed across the lonely years, we were losers then but we overcame our fears

We were heroes in the darkest night, braving on the setting suns and new horizons

Paradise leads to freedom’s door, better to forget harsh tomes before

Eat and drink and be merry, dance all night with the lovely ladies

Called toward our fearsome goal, silver clouds will light the way

We travel deep into the night, lost in jungle, fog, astray

We stand alone in this world, before a mind that is not seen

The mind, it claims to have the key, to knowledge to set us free

We don’t have the answers, but in faith we do believe

That before this night is over, man will know how to be free

Remembering so well, I hold you so close in my arms

We dance round the floor, never before in our charm

Hold minutes so close, never the same

As if we were never to love again

Your sweet lips meet mine, split-second divine the world ‘round!

We join in our peace, and our ugly world wears the crown

Of suffering and pain, always the same

As if we were never to love again

Touch those soft hands, journey through lands, your gentle hands in mine

The others they fight, ignoring the light that your eyes and mine have seen-

Love

Why can’t the world embrace itself as we have done?

Again before time passes the time we are one

Starting again, maybe we’ll win

As if we were never to love again.

Touch those soft hands, journey through lands, your gentle hands in mine

The others they fight, ignoring the light that your eyes and mine have seen-

The time will soon end approaching our bed, forecasting dangers ahead

In sadness we part, the floor becomes dark, in hopes that we soon grasp again-

Love.

Your day is done evil one! I challenge thee to death!

In this world evil still abides, my sword of life has severed your side

Fighting wars that ended long ago, sorrows are forgotten, victory is our own

Victory!

Many friends have died, mourn for them now

We must continue on, we’ve come this far for now

We have heard the words, the wise philosophy

We now must journey on, set the people free

Here we stand in this rich land, New Zealand’s fertile soil

A paradise of the future at our feet, a challenge to learn, a challenge to compete!

Far above the lofty clouds we soar through the heights

Spread the message ‘round the world that man will delight

Indeed delight!

A challenge toward the future, uncertain end in sight

We have won thus far, let’s not forfeit the fight

A task that cannot fail, a task for every man

Farewell homage New Zealand, of rich and sacred land

INDIA

Children hide from their fears

As the kingdom of love draws near

The world is now in the palms of their hands

As the world revolves around India

Looking into their innocent eyes

We now know where the future lies

Touched by loneliness, blooming with love

The world reborn around India

Death looms near to cast their fate

Mark rebels, his life the take

In children’s arms Mark’s body lay

As we fly over Jordan

FLIGHT OVER JORDAN

Once there was paradise

Warmed by rays of the sun

Peace and love abiding well

Deny the trigger of the gun

Teeming fires, horizons swell

Every man thinks he’s won

Oh no

Not so

As we fly over Jordan

As we recollect our mornings past

Over valleys of death

We wish we could warn all those before

The truth of the ancient prophet

His words are true, his warning wise

Do not let the scorching sun set

Too late

As we fly over Jordan

All of you before take heed

Abide by the warning now

We’ve seen everything this world will be

We eat by the sweat of our brow

The weather’s rough, you fight for your life

Your paradise world is no more

It’s gone

As we fly over Jordan

ARMAGEDDON GOLD

In the plain of Megiddo

Where death was triumphant

I stand alone before the gates of hell

Star of day sinking low

Gentle winds dance upon my face

Mournful silence, mossy ground, cries of ghosts

Waves of blood once rolled where I stand

Bitter cries and memories lost in now-forgotten lands

They fought a war which no one won, they all, died just the same

But now the desert rose has won and no one’s left to blame

Alone, alone

As cold sweat drips from my forehead to my cheeks

And before me is the bane that brought man down

The key to death awaits my sight

A wooden chest now contains the lustful gold

A Rose by any other name. Is this the end?

My hands grasp the chest to see another time

I wonder if I should look or should I save my mind.

But no-I will look to see what I will find-

My God! It’s gold! Is this why man has died?

SONG OF THE STARS

Harmony vocals and lush guitars were the rage in 1977, and Stiffwater liked the direction popular music was going, resulting in this offering of multitracked guitars and vocals. Their own compositions and covers of ornate pieces are included here, including Alice Cooper's "Halo of Flies." "The City," the start of Stiffwater's next concept piece entitled "Firehouse 400," is also presented in early form. That project would be completed 13 years later with a proper recording. The Song of the Stars recording features Ron Ardia on the drums. Also included is the lovely song by David McKinnis based after the Arthur C. Clarke novel "To Sail a Cylindrical Sea," which would become a landmark song in Stiffwater's catalog. This version of Stiffwater is usually regarded as the best iteration and some of the best compositions and arrangements resulted from this 4-piece line-up.
Available on CD in 2017.
AARON JOHNSON: Guitars & SynthesizersDAVID McKINNIS: Vocals & GuitarsKEITH GOATES: BassRON ARDIA: Drums

LIVE 78

The raw energy of a live Stiffwater event could not be ignored or denied, as attested to in this thunderous recording displaying the band's explosive presence on a stage. Includes covers of ELP and Alice Cooper songs, as well as original Stiffwater songs and the only live recording known to exist of a portion of Aaron Johnson's Midnight Mountain Hour symphony.
Available on CD in 2017.
AARON JOHNSON: Guitars & SynthesizerDAVID McKINNIS: Vocals & GuitarsKEITH GOATES: BassRON ARDIA: Drums

ECHOES FROM THE BASEMENT

A treasure trove of rehearsal recordings of covers from the mid 1970s, the sound quality is amazingly good given the technology of the time. Surprising quality renditions of ZZ Top, Neil Diamond, Joe Walsh, Jethro Tull, Styx and Moody Blues songs. This collection was assembled to present to prospective clients looking for live acts.
Available on CD in 2017.
AARON JOHNSON: Guitars, Vocals & SynthesizerDAVID McKINNIS: Vocals & GuitarsKEITH GOATES: BassRON ARDIA: Drums

MORE ECHOES FROM THE BASEMENT

Rehearsals of original songs composed by the band in the 1980s, and a rare and impressive performance of Pink Floyd's "Echoes" with its stunning atmosphere can be relished here. Also included is "The Battle," from Armageddon Gold, as played with Ron Ardia on the drums, the only piece attesting to his performance of that incredible material, aside from "Eclipse," a Stiffwater standard.
Available on CD in 2017.
AARON JOHNSON: Guitars & SynthesizerDAVID McKINNIS: Vocals & GuitarsKEVIN GOATES: BassKEITH GOATES: BassRON ARDIA: DrumsJIM BENNETT: DrumsPETE MALDONADO: Drums

THE RUINS

The 1982 album that announced Stiffwater's return with an aggressive tour and promotion, with Jim Bennett arriving on the drums and Scott Burns taking over on bass. A loose concept in a series of songs by David McKinnis in the first half and a set of songs that were composed by other band members in the second half, the band saw a resurgence in shows and press write-ups supporting the effort. This would be Stiffwater's largest cast of musicians and most successful series of concert dates, freeing David up to be a frontman and playing acoustic guitar.
Available on CD in 2017 and remastered in 2026 by Blair Ashby for AJP, The Ruins is now available for online listening right here at the Stiffwater web site.
DAVID McKINNIS: Vocals & GuitarsKEITH GOATES: GuitarsKEVIN GOATES: GuitarsSCOTTE BURNS: BassMIKE KLOEPFER: Guitars and keyboardsJIM BENNETT: Drums
LISTEN TO THE RUINS ALBUM

CYCLE

1984 was a big year for Stiffwater members. David McKinnis took on the producer role, taking the band to Colorado Springs' Startsong Studios (where he had worked with Aaron Johnson on San Juan Stories) to realize this very special vision. Most of the music is based on a loose concept composed by David, with band members contributing their own compositions among the overall arch of the concept of cosmic cycles. This is a must-hear, as it is 80s Stiffwater at its technical hard rocking best.
At the same time, Aaron Johnson was producing his 4th album "Finally" at the same studio, with Stiffwater alumni Mike Kloepfer and Jim Bennett. A friendly rivalry prevailed throughout the year.
Available on CD in 2017 and remastered in 2026 by Blair Ashby for AJP, Cycle is now available for online listening right here at the Stiffwater web site.
DAVID McKINNIS: Vocals, keyboards & GuitarsKEITH GOATES: Guitars & BassKEVIN GOATES: Guitars & BassSCOTTE BURNS: BassRON ARDIA: Drums
LISTEN TO THE ALBUM ON THE CYCLE PAGE

FIREHOUSE 400 REHEARSALS

Stiffwater wisely and thankfully had the presence of mind to record just about anything they deemed worthy. This rehearsal recording in preparation of the now legdendary Firehouse 400 concert event is a treasured item, and the sound quality is quite good along with the performances. Later songs are captured in development and differ from the final recording that would be produced five years later. The story of a city becoming an evil entity is a troubling foretelling of the times we live in today, as technology and AI invade every aspect of our lives. Originally started in 1977, this recording was mid-point in the creative process that would span 14 years, and culminate in an album representing the band's best compositional work and creativity. Music composed by Aaron Johnson and David McKinnis.
This live home recording is exceptionally good for a casual production. With a few songs still in development and members still working on their parts, listeners get a glimpse into how song construction evolves. Recorded on video in 1985, the live performance is now the stuff of legend. A pyrotechnic explosion startled the cameraman and shook the camera tripod. The image remained tilted for the remainder of the show. The resulting video was not that good, but aptly proved Firehouse 400 translated well to a live setting. Excerpts from this event can be seen in the video below entitled STIFFWATER DAZE.
The band would do an official recording of Firehouse 400 in 1990, finally releasing the album and taking the music out on the road yet again to more acclaim. Available on CD in 2017 and remastered in 2026 by Blair Ashby for AJP, The Firehouse 400 Rehearsals album is now available for online listening right here at the Stiffwater web site.
Available on CD in 2017.
DAVID McKINNIS: Vocals & GuitarsAARON JOHNSON: Keyboards, vocalsKEITH GOATES: Bass guitarRON ARDIA: DrumsMIKE KLOEPFER: Concert artwork and promotionKEVIN GOATES: Photographic concepts for the live performance
LISTEN TO FIREHOUSE 400 REHEARSALS

SALVAGED GEMS AND RUSTED NUTS

A compilation of rehearsals and performances spanning Stiffwater's career. Partials, outtakes and goofing around, nevertheless displaying the amazing talent of the Siffwater band. Includes a copy of Aaron Johnson's Midnight Mountain Hour symphony prior to the 2025 recording and remastering effort.
Available on CD in 2017.
DAVID McKINNIS: Vocals & GuitarsAARON JOHNSON: Keyboards, guitars, vocalsKEITH GOATES: Bass guitarRON ARDIA: DrumsKEN HERFERT: DrumsMIKE KLOEPFER: Artwork and promotionKEVIN GOATES: Bass, vocals

SP@ZZ

Songs composed by the band employ a more aggressive approach, citing a grunge influence, more guitar and less keyboards in this 2002 outing. State-of-the-art home recording technology was employed, resulting in the band's first digital recording and official CD release (CD releases of all other material would occur with the restoration project in 2017). Never afraid to try a new direction or tackle new territory, this would be Stiffwater's last creative effort for 24 years.
3 promotion videos were produced and can be viewed below in the video section.
Released on CD in 2002 and remastered in 2026 by Blair Ashby for AJP, Spazz is now available for online listening right here at the Stiffwater web site.
DAVID McKINNIS: Vocals, guitars, keyboardsKEITH GOATES: Guitars and vocalsKEVIN GOATES: Bass, guitars and vocalsJIM BENNETT: Drums and percussion
LISTEN TO SP@ZZ

FIREHOUSE 400

A city is discovered to be a living entity, and the humans involved must face a choice: Continue to live as servants dependent on the city for their livelihood in a symbiotic relationship, or "disconnect themselves" from the matrix in order to gain their independence and freedom. Created long before "terminators" or "matrix" were common pop culture themes, and long before cell phones and internet, Firehouse 400 is a marvel of prophetic forecasting through the lens of thundering progressive rock played at its most intense and intricate.
The usual approach back in the day was to record the album, then tour to promote it. Stiffwater's second opus was done in reverse, playing the album live first and then completing the recording. Composition started in 1977, with live performances in 1985 and the final recording in 1990 followed by more live performances.
Produced by David McKinnis in 1990 and released by AJP on CD in 2009, Firehouse 400 is often regarded as the highlight in the Stiffwater story, if not their best collective composition overall.
A painstaking technical process to recondition the master tapes and transfer the analog recording to the digital format is now complete. As of October 2026 the remixing effort is underway, bringing this incredible music into the 21st century, addressing the issues we face today that this album foretold 35 years ago.
DAVID McKINNIS: Guitars, vocalsAARON JOHNSON: KeyboardsKEITH GOATES: Bass guitar, vocalsRON ARDIA: Drums
LISTEN TO FIREHOUSE 400 (Not yet released)

DAVID McKINNIS: SOLO

Produced by David McKinnis during the 1979 San Juan Stories sessions, this compilation of material was completed in 2009 with the addition of material recorded by the band "Legacy." "20th Century Mountain Man" was co-written by longtime collaborator and Stiffwater alumi Aaron Johnson. The song also appeared on Johnson's "San Juan Stories." A refreshing tour of McKinnis' many influences, this album is not what the listener would expect and certainly a departure from the Stiffwater realm. A great rendition of the Olympics theme appears here, along with David's stellar piece "To Sail A Cylindrical Sea," in a soaring performance by Legacy, the band which played on most of Johnson's San Juan Stories.
Available on CD in 2017 and remastered in 2026 by Blair Ashby for AJP, David McKinnis-Solo is now available for online listening right here at the Stiffwater web site.
DAVID McKINNIS: Vocals, bass, guitars, keyboardsTOM GREGOR: Percussion and drumsAARON JOHNSON: Banjo, keyboards, 12 string guitarJEFF WAYNIK: BassSCOTT BLUMENREICH: Drums
LISTEN TO DAVID McKINNIS - SOLO

VIDEOS

Stiffwater videos are a rare thing. The band's earliest days were long before consumer video products were readily available. As videos become available, they will be posted.

LIVE AT THE TOAD TAVERN

Captured live in 2012 at the Toad Tavern in Littleton, Colorado. This is a lively and exciting concert showcasing old rock and roll standards as well as original material. This recording captures Stiffwater's last public performance. Concert video produced by Bennett's All Night Garage (BANG). The concert event can be seen and heard right here! Click on the video below to watch the concert.
DAVID McKINNIS: Vocals and guitarJEFF RHODES: Bass and vocalsJIM BENNETT: Drums

If you want to watch the whole show on a phone, CLICK HERE.

BREAKDOWN

12th track from the 2002 album SP@ZZ.
DAVID McKINNIS: Guitars, vocalsKEITH GOATES: GuitarsKEVIN GOATES: BassJIM BENNETT: Drums

DON'T FEED THE MACHINE

11th track from the 2002 album SP@ZZ.

DAVID McKINNIS: Guitars, keyboards, vocalsKEITH GOATES: GuitarsKEVIN GOATES: BassJIM BENNETT: Drums

SOMETHING OR OTHER

3rd track from the 2002 album SP@ZZ.

DAVID McKINNIS: Guitars, vocalsKEITH GOATES: GuitarsKEVIN GOATES: BassJIM BENNETT: Drums

STIFFWATER DAZE

2nd track from Aaron Johnson's 2026 album "When the Rains Came," commemorating the life and times of the Stiffwater Band. Features photographs dating back to 1973 and rare video footage from 1985.

STIFFWATER FAMILY TREE TIMELINE

This family tree timeline is a condensed history with extraneous events and personnel excised and streamlined. Updated on a regular basis as events developed, this graphic is now complete as the Stiffwater story draws to a close.
PHOTO: Jim Bennett, Mike Kloepfer, Ken Herfert, Aaron Johnson, Keith Goates, Kevin Goates, Ron Ardia at a poignant reunion following the passing of David McKinnis.
AJP PROJECT

STIFFWATERTIME TABLE

This chart tracks approximate periods when Stiffwater personnel were active in the band, pursuing their own project or other music activity. It was originally produced for the Stiffwater Preservation effort in 2017. What was unforeseen were final updates reflecting the end of the band's long and prosperous life.

ARTWORK PROMOTION

Produced by the band over the decades to promote Stiffwater projects and appearances.

1985 PROMO

FIREHOUSE 400 CONCERT PROMO

SONG OF THE STARS ALBUM PROMO

Poster designs by Aaron Johnson

1984 PROMOTION POSTER

TIME
Time, the ongoing version of what will be, to now what is, to what has been.It begins when we do, it ends when we do.
We live for all time, what little time we have.
We can do nothing about that.
Every moment we are reborn, a new version of the same old thing.
We come barreling out of the future, only to fly through the present in one fleeting moment, and then become history the next.
We can do nothing about that.
Keith Goates, 12/2/1993