Flobots

Originating in Denver, Colorado, Flobots formed in 2005 as a progressive rap ensemble built around two MCs and a complete live band, marked by a political awareness, instrumental proficiency, and commanding stage presence. Drawing from acts such as the Roots and Common alongside Rage Against the Machine and Tool, the lineup united Jonny 5, born Jamie Laurie, with Brer Rabbit, born Stephen Brackett, who had first crossed paths during elementary school, plus Andy Guerrero on guitar, Mackenzie Roberts on viola, Joe Ferrone on trumpet, Jesse Walker on bass, and Kenny Ortiz on drums. The seven-track Platypus EP appeared in October 2005, followed in 2007 by their first full-length album, Fight with Tools. Local support in the Denver area quickly grew, leading to opening slots for Public Enemy and the Fray.

A contract with Universal Music Group arrived in 2008, prompting a reissue of Fight with Tools through its Republic imprint. March 2010 brought the second studio album, Survival Story, produced by Mario Caldato and displaying a stronger rock orientation; Rise Against’s Tim McIlrath contributed to the single “White Flag Warrior.” On the opening day of the Occupy Wall Street movement in 2011, the band declared plans for a new release, fulfilling the pledge when The Circle in the Square reached stores in 2012. Their fourth album, Noenemies, surfaced in 2017 and centered on protest material addressing current sociopolitical concerns, including the songs “American Dreams,” “Pray,” and “Rattle the Cage,” the last of which first appeared shortly after the 2016 United States Presidential election.