Albums: Fight With Tools, Handlebars, Survival Story

Flobots are an alternative rap/rock band from Denver, CO. They consist of Jonny 5 (vocals), Brer Rabbit (vocals), Mackenzie Roberts (viola), Jessie Walker (bass), Andy Guerrero (guitar), Joe Ferrone (trumpet) and Kenny Ortiz (drums). The band became popular in 2008 when their singles "Handlebars" and "Rise" became hits on American alternative rock radio.

When a pair of quick-witted emcees joins forces with a battle-hardened, groove-fusing rhythm section, a classically trained violist and trumpet player, the result is a sound that explores and expands the frontiers of live hip-hop. Progressive in both style and message, the band's ability to drop from symphonic rock-infused crescendos into stripped-down string-laden breakbeats has earned Flobots a reputation for both originality and authenticity. After originally forming as a side project in 2005, Flobots brought together Emcee?s Jonny 5 and Brer Rabbit with violist Mackenzie Roberts, guitarist Andy Guerrero, bassist Jesse Walker, trumpet player Joe Ferrone, and drummer Kenny Ortiz.

By the end of the year, it was clear that the band's refreshingly positive message and nontraditional instrumentation gave it both a universal appeal and a marketable buzz factor. Whether sharing the stage with jam bands, indie rock acts, or hip-hop groups, Flobots won the crowds and quickly reached a tippping point to became one of Denver's most influential bands. The band's first EP, Platypus, was recorded quickly in response to the clamor of eager fans.

Platypus' CD sales in the first week put Flobots at #1 on Twist & Shout's bestseller list. In just a year and half, Platypus has sold over 3000 copies in Colorado and the surrounding region. The strength of this small record and a relentless performing schedule has enabled the band to open for acts like The Coup, Lyrics Born, Immortal Technique, and 2mex.

Even Multi-platinum recording artist The Fray took notice, inviting the band to open the last night of their North American Tour at Red Rocks amphitheatre. Now, just two and a half years from the birth of their first song, the band regularly sells out Denver venues and is developing sizeable followings in California, Nebraska, Utah, and Wyoming. The upward trajectory continues as the band prepares to release its first full-length record, Fight With Tools (October 2007).

Representing a year's worth of writing and recording, the record is a fire-breathing rallying cry for all free-thinking individuals fed-up with the violence and apathy that have thus far defined the new millenium. In February and March 2009 Flobots are going to join Rise Against and Anti-Flag for their United Kingdom tour. Armed with musicianship, intelligence, and a passionate loyalty to the power of creation, Flobots are looking to engage a new musical culture, one mind at a time.

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