The Sleeping Gypsies

Formed from the remnants of a metal band and a hip-hop/RnB group, The Sleeping Gypsies got together in early 2010 and spent countless hours jamming in guitarist Mitch Crandall’s basement with what was very likely the most horrendous setup in music history. The drums sounded like tin cans, and the microphone alternated between being taped to an exercise bench and suspended from the ceiling. But they were playing some great tunes, and eventually they updated (some of) their equipment and found a niche in the northern Michigan music scene. Today they support their music habit by gigging at bars all over Michigan, entertaining crowds with covers of songs from classic artists like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Temptations, The Doors, and Prince. The Gypsies’ original material is influenced by these musicians and others, but they certainly have a style that is all their own. Their energetic rock songs contain noticeable blues, jazz, flamenco and swing elements, with catchy and thoughtful lyrics over top. Billy Roloff’s throwback vocals, Crandall’s amazing guitar work, Colin Fitzgerald’s memorable drum parts, and Matt Mason’s tight bass lines blend to create a sound that is unique and very pleasing to the ears. These four young men deliver an exciting show, but there are no gimmicks. With the Gypsies, it’s all about the music, and the music is good.