James McDonald
Guitar, Lead, Vocals
James McDonald has been a musician for over 40 years, with two decades spent performing professionally across Western Canada. A true multi-instrumentalist, James has mastered drums, bass, and guitar, while also playing piano, harmonica, and mandolin. His talents extend beyond the stage—he writes and records his own music and has worked as a studio session player.
James’s journey began behind a snare drum in the Branch #4 Legion Pipe Band, which led to an incredible opportunity to perform with the Band of the Ceremonial Guard on Parliament Hill in Ottawa. From there, his drumming career flourished in British Columbia’s Lower Mainland and the Okanagan, where he played in numerous B-circuit cover bands and recorded at legendary studios like Little Mountain Music and Mushroom Studios in Vancouver.
As musical demands evolved, James expanded his repertoire to include bass and rhythm/lead guitar, performing professionally throughout the Okanagan and Alberta circuits. Over the years, he’s shared the stage with some of Canada’s most iconic musicians, including 54-40, Matt Minglewood, Prism, and Jeff Healey. His experience spans genres from rock and classic rock to country, reggae, orchestral, and pipe band music.
For James, music is more than a craft—it’s a way of life:
“Music is a passion and a lifestyle choice. I am grateful for the players and people I have met in my musical journey. My life is infinitely more enriched because I have been able to play with amazing and talented people.”
Siyath Sok
Bass Guitar, Vocals
Siyath is the groove machine behind The Straydogs, laying down deep, driving bass lines that anchor the band’s sound. With a steady presence, he keeps the rhythm tight while adding a low-end rumble you can feel.
His musical journey began at age 9 with piano, later moving to guitar and developing a love for grunge and metal. In high school, he played trombone and double bass in jazz band before settling into bass guitar as his true calling.
Influenced by artists like Pino Palladino, Flea, and Geezer Butler, Siyath has played in bands including Second Sight, Mindtrap, and Corduroy Fly. He also gained early recording experience creating a soundtrack for highschool productions.
After moving to Yellowknife in 2011, Siyath became part of the local music scene, playing with the Yellowknife Vineyard Church, where he connected with Chris. Their friendship grew through playing with Nathan Knox and the yard dogs, leading to Siyath sitting in as a substitute player with The Straydogs. Siyath now moves into the role of a full-time member with the The Straydogs and will help solidify the bottom end and make you move.
Chris Rayner
Drums, other sounds, Vocals
Chris Rayner is the powerhouse behind the kit for The Straydogs, driving the band’s raw energy and dynamic sound with precision and passion. Known for his explosive grooves and tight rhythms, Chris brings a unique blend of technical skill and soulful feel to every performance. His drumming style fuses classic rock influences with a little modern flair, creating a backbone that elevates the band’s energetic and party band vibe.
A lifelong musician, Chris started honing his craft at an early age, inspired by legendary drummers like Phil Rudd, Kenny Aronoff, Steve Gadd and Jeff Pocaro. Over the years, he’s developed a reputation for his versatility and dependability—whether it’s laying down thunderous beats for anthemic choruses or crafting intricate patterns that keep audiences hooked. On stage, Chris is a force of nature, delivering relentless energy that fuels The Straydogs’ electrifying live shows.
When he’s not behind the kit, Chris is deeply involved in shaping the band’s creative direction, contributing to songwriting and arrangements that define their signature sound. His dedication to music and commitment to pushing boundaries make him an integral part of The Straydogs journey.
Paul White
Keyboard, Vocals
Paul White is a versatile musician, producer.
Originally from Port au Port Newfoundland, Paul fell in love with the Northwest Territories while performing at the 2013 Folk on the Rocks Festival with Iqaluit's The Tradeoffs. Since relocating to Yellowknife four years ago, Paul has immersed himself in the Yellowknife music community. Performing in theatrical pit bands and various collaborations with local artists.
Paul brings new energy and musical tastes that makes a Straydogs performance an unforgettable party.