ABOUT CALUMET

Calumet was formed in Phoenix, Arizona by Eric “ET” Mobley (v/g/k) and Jason “JJ” Mitchell (g/b) in 2001, with Ian “Eon” White (b) and Brandon Amos (d). Over the next two years the lineup would change to include Chris “Basshead” Starks (b) and Joel “Boodat” Phillips (d).  Originally a funk and soul cover band, Calumet began writing its own material soon after forming.  The band cut its teeth playing bbq joints, parking lot festivals, and pool halls for a couple of years in Phoenix, Tempe, and Scottsdale.

In 2002, the band released their debut album, “Retro Energy” and played shows around Arizona, including stints at Martini Ranch, Livingston’s, and numerous other nightclubs and restaurants. During the next 7 years, a number of the Valley’s best musicians, including Marvin Scott (s), performed in Calumet. The band featured at clubs and festivals, and landed opening spots for Al Green, Kool & the Gang, and George Benson.  Two more albums were issued, “The Musical Brothers of Calumet”, and “Rock Soul Funkateers”, before the band went  on hiatus in 2009.

Calumet was reborn in 2018 with Eric and Jason reunited on their funky quest.  The band now features Josh Prior (b/g), Jeff Pivin (d), Rich Cross (t), plus early members Ian (now on percussion) and Marvin back in the fold.  The band is bringing the Funk to the Valley of the Sun and beyond, with the “It’s What You Do” EP released in July of 2019, a new full album in June of 2020, and frequent new singles throughout 2020. 

Recent shows include 2019 New Year’s Eve at the Phoenix Block Party, The Scottsdale Culinary Festival main stage, The Flying Burrito Festival, plus club dates at Kazimierz, Valley Bar, Cactus Jack’s, Wasted Grain, Crescent Ballroom, and Copper Blues.

Look for Calumet’s new album of original material, “Life in Transition”, releasing on June 1st 2020. PRESS KIT