About
Free Peoples began as a band in an Oakland, California studio in 1999. It was there that singer/guitarist Tim Sawyer and bassist/singer Michael DiPirro met. They immediately connected on a deep musical level and began composing songs. Soon after, guitarist/vocalist Johnny Downer joined. The trio began working on their self-titled album that would be released in 2001. A year or so later drums were added to the ensemble to accommodate larger venues. The band recorded two more studio albums between 2002-2005 and two live albums between 2007- present.
The band has fluctuated with different line-ups throughout the last 15 years. Some of the players who have contributed to the ever-evolving sound have been Bradley Leach, James Foster and Ricardo Lomeli on drums; Mark Calderon on bass; and Jesse Shantor and Nick Hasty on saxophones.
The current line-up features long time member Jason Thor on trombone/vocals, Sam Hamby on guitar/vocals and Dylan Garrison on drums.
What People Are Saying
“The music is instantly fresh, a jazz-tinged, song-oriented, slightly jamming take on new grass” - Stewart Oskenhorn
“The songwriting is sophisticated with twist that take the music several steps from the expected” - Maurice Teilmann
“Free Peoples rocks! I was impressed by how good this band was. I loved the up-tempo “ new grass” songs beautifully performed and executed! I can see why they are becoming one of the hottest new bands in the San Francisco area.” - Jefferson Public Radio
“Yes you can dance to them, but you want to stop and listen because of the complexity of the rhythms and the quality musicianship” - Herbie Herbert, former manager of Journey and Steve Miller Band
“Free Peoples kicks a certain kind of high energy retro butt. Great grooves, fine songs, and damn fine lead playing by Johnny Downer. Huge energy, great style” - Forestville Gazette
“Free Peoples are porch rock pros with down home rustic charm and sure footed modesty. Don't miss this fine acoustic act” - David Gans
“Free Peoples have quietly become one of the best American roots bands. Fine harmonies, blues and jazz edges and rock elements all combine into a cohesive joyful sound. Their new CD, Sittin’ on a Goldmine, is another tight, focused work with impeccable musicianship and excellent songs. While some folks soar on the Dead, Phish or String Cheese Incident, I soar on Free Peoples. They’re as good as it gets.”