The Squeaky Clean Cretins call the Lake Superior country of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula home. If you listen just right, you might hear the rolling waves of the Big Lake woven intricately into the fabric of their songs. The Cretins adhere to the deep roots of folk tradition while adding a contemporary spin to their songwriting. Although it’s hard to stamp a label on this band due to their ability to take the music in a multitude of directions, the vibe of the band can be described as indie/americana/folk-rock. They definitely have a niche for combining beautifully crafted melodies with blended harmony vocals and infectious guitar riffs. Their eclectic songwriting style runs the gamut from pertinent and socially aware to carefree hook-inspired jams that move crowds to their feet. Words such as “playful”, “joyous” and “surprising” are often used to describe the band. Their music is highly original, rich and heartfelt. Their stage presence is undeniable.
The Cretins are quickly becoming recognized on the midwest festival circuit and beyond. The band released their debut CD “of flesh, of marrow” in October 2007 and are in the mixing/mastering phase with their follow-up release, due out around January 2009. The band has performed at the following festivals or venues: Earthwork Harvest Gathering, Rozsa Center for the Performing Arts, Calumet Theatre, Porcupine Mountain Music Festival, Eccentric Café at Bells Brewery, Keweenaw Folk Festival , White Crow Conservatory of Music, Bridgefest, Crazy Wisdom Tea room, Kraftbrau Brewery, Horizon Books, Thimbleberry Jam Fest, Woodtick Festival, and many other clubs and coffee houses.
The band is in the process of booking festival and club dates for a summer 2009 tour. Please contact us if you'd like us to perform at your venue. View our Sonicbids "Electronic Press Kit" by clicking on the link below.
Saw you played Outpost in Door County, very cool, how was it? (I was there the week before) I'm actually considering coming to Earthworks again just to see you, you were the highlight of the fest for me last year. Love you squeaky lads. -Charlie
dude. i love your music. ive known you forever through my big brother, joe lampela (used to be voelker) n steve-o kotajarvi whos like a brother, n i meant to make it up to the harbor tonight but i couldnt:/ you should for sure let me know when you're playing in town cuz im goin to tech now n i can actually make it to some of ur gigs:) peace <3kristen
hey!!! it was beyond cool to see you guys at the outpost last weekend!! the show ROCKED! you should totally look into playing steelbridge songfest here in sturgeon bay next summer! check it out at www.steelbridgesongfest.org. :D
hey guys, looks like you're keeping very busy these days. kudos! you make the copper country proud. keep up your great work and keep rockin. best, marti