Prescott’s live music scene is packed with talent, but few bands capture the grit, soul and spirit of true Southern rock quite like South of 40. Formed in 2022 by drummer and band leader DJ Hunt, the group has quickly become a local favorite for their authentic sound, deep musical chemistry and unmistakable energy on stage. Blending blues, rock ’n’ roll and Southern swagger, they honor legends like the Allman Brothers and Lynyrd Skynyrd while bringing their own vibrant personality to every performance.
In this interview with Prescott NOW, members of South of 40 share how they came together, what defines their sound and the Southern roots behind their name — along with the passion that keeps them performing for the community they love.
Prescott NOW: How long have you been playing together?
DJ Hunt: I kicked things off in 2022, by reaching out to the best musicians — those passionate about the genre who were willing to put in the demanding hours of practice to nail their authentic Southern rock sound.
I am a ride-or-die drummer and manage the band, secure gigs and engage with patrons, local bands and venues.
Frank Araneo is the lead and slide guitarist and also a lead vocalist. He’s loved Southern rock since he first heard the Allman Brothers in the ‘70s.
Larry (LT) Trainor is lead rhythm guitarist and mandolin player. He thrives on playing his intricate riffs and his guitar harmonies with Frank.
Kim McKinney is a versatile keyboardist and vocalist with a rich history in the industry — a born entertainer whose vocal arrangements add dimension to the sound.
Joe (Dirt) Reid, the bassist, is the rhythmic center. He’s been a sound man and stagehand in Vegas for many years, and his “live-for-now” approach is filled with Southern rock attitude. He runs sound at each venue with some assistance from Frank’s wife, Sue, ensuring the audience experiences the band at its best, while my wife, Lydia, videotapes for marketing.
Each band member contributes their voice in both lead and harmony, namely the talents of Frank and Kim. The band invites select vocalists to join them, which have included the voices of Merri McKee, Stephanie Kaiser, Susan Kelly, Greg Paul and Chris Firebaugh.
Prescott NOW: How would you describe your sound?
DJ Hunt: It’s rebellious rock ‘n’ roll mixed with the blues and country sound of the South. It’s gritty, it’s soulful, and it’s all about that feel-good vibe. We’re a Southern rock revue, true to the music of icons like the Allman Brothers, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Molly Hatchet, etc. and the more recent band, Blackberry Smoke.
We consider audience engagement — what makes people dance, sing along or just enjoy. People love the classics like Sweet Home Alabama, One Way Out and Keep Your Hands to Yourself.
Frank Araneo: Our emphasis is on the original renditions of the music. Local musicians compliment us on our no-compromise approach to keeping our sound authentic.
Prescott NOW: What’s the story behind your band’s name?
DJ Hunt: Interstate 40 runs across the entire country from east to west, and since Prescott lies just south of it, we chose South of 40 because it ties us to not only our place on the map but to our musical identity.
Southern rock didn’t just start from one place; it’s unique to the culture of the entire South. And it’s more than just a physical road — I-40 is symbolic of the southern U.S. — rebellious, and wild, and raw, like a road trip full of stories … and plenty of guitars.
LT’s wife, Julie, designed our logo and graphics to reflect that journey. Our name had to feel like you just enjoyed some amazing BBQ in Amarillo or had peach cobbler at your grandma’s in Memphis.
Prescott NOW: What motivates your band to perform?
Frank Araneo: It starts with a desire to entertain and connect. Our deep admiration of Southern rock and its musicians is a calling that translates into genuine enthusiasm — palpable to audiences.
DJ Hunt: Southern rock has an honest quality that resonates with people from ballads to guitar jams to danceable hits. Another motivation is that we grew up listening to these songs, and now we get to bring them to life.
Prescott’s music scene as a whole is why we as a band love living and playing here. 
