Free Creatures is not your average power trio. Hailing from Southern Oregon, this eclectic group has been redefining musical boundaries since their serendipitous formation in 2017. With a sound described as “the umami of music,” they combine alt-hip-hop, indie, psych-rock, and EDM into a vibrant blend that invites listeners into a world of playful innovation and raw authenticity. As they gear up for their upcoming show at the Sweetwater Music Hall in Mill Valley, the band promises a night of music, dancing, and surprises, once again proving they’re masters of creating unforgettable experiences.
Front and center in the trio is Emily Turner, whose electric upright bass and vocals provide a thunderous and tender sonic foundation. “We like to say our music is a fusion of alternative indie rock with psychedelic hip-hop,” Turner explains. “It’s attractive because it’s such a unique combination of instruments—my upright bass and trumpet, the electric guitar, and the MPC live with spinning beats. We’re blending sounds that make people move and think.”
Joining her are Marv Ellis, the group’s charismatic MC and beatmaker, and guitarist Skyler Squglio, who brings left-handed, upside-down guitar wizardry to the mix. Together, they create music that feels like a ten-course feast of rhythms, melodies, and lyrical poetry. Their synergy has turned the band into a phenomenon that defies categorization.
The band’s origin story is as unconventional as their sound. Turner recalls how she and Marv Ellis were both navigating the end of separate musical projects when fate (and a Southern Oregon wildfire season) pushed them indoors with their instruments. “We kept finding ourselves with instruments in hand, creating music together,” she reminisces. “During one of those smoke-filled days in 2017, Marv worked on a beat in his studio. I grabbed my ukulele, and our first song was born. We liked it so much we thought, ‘Hey, maybe we’ve got a sound here worth exploring.'”
That exploration led to the addition of Squglio, whose guitar skills completed the band’s dynamic. Settling on the name “Free Creatures” was a journey in itself. “We wanted to create something where everyone felt welcome—no matter their background, beliefs, or preferences,” Turner says. “And the name reflects our goal of being free to create music that transcends genres and expectations.”
Their musical influences are as diverse as the band itself. Turner grew up immersed in jazz, Americana, and the pop and rock of the ’90s and 2000s. Marv Ellis draws inspiration from hip-hop legends like OutKast and André 3000, while Squglio channels the spirit of Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and The Smiths. The result is a melting pot of styles that feel fresh yet familiar. Tracks like “Inviting You In” showcase this blend perfectly. “It’s a song about setting the vibe early in our set,” Turner shares. “We wanted to create something that feels like a warm welcome, drawing people into the dance floor.”
For Free Creatures, songwriting is a collaborative process. Marv Ellis often starts with a beat, which the band then builds upon with melodic elements and 
improvisation. “Skyler’s improvisation is a huge part of our sound,” Turner explains. “We always leave room for him to shine, and his guitar solos bring a unique energy to every performance.”
Their 2023 While We Can is a milestone for the trio. Featuring fan favorites like “Get It Done” and “Oregon Nights,” it’s the band’s first fully cohesive release as a trio. They’re taking things to the next level with a vinyl pressing. “As an indie band, having your music pressed on vinyl is a giant accolade,” Turner says. “It’s a timeless stamp of your presence and creativity. Holding that record in my hands, knowing my voice is etched into those grooves—it’s incredible!”
The Pacific Northwest’s rugged beauty and indie ethos deeply influence the band’s music. “Our lyrics often reflect our connection to nature,” Turner notes. “There’s a raw edge to Northwest music—think Nirvana or Jimi Hendrix—and I feel that comes through in our sound, especially with Skyler’s guitar work and Marv’s hip-hop sensibilities.”
As for the future, the band is brimming with plans. They’ll be heading into the studio in January to record a new album, using live multi-track recording to capture the essence of their onstage energy. Collaborations with artists like Dirtwire and rapper Kuf Knotz are also in the works. “We’ve spent the past year testing out new songs live, letting them breathe and evolve with the audience,” Turner says. “Now we’re ready to bring that energy into the studio.”
Their December 12th show at Sweetwater Music Hall promises to be a highlight of the season. In true Free Creatures fashion, the night will be as much a celebration as a concert. “It’s a holiday gathering, dance party, and shopping event all rolled into one,” Turner enthuses. “There’s a local clothing sale before the show, and if you make a purchase, you get a free ticket to the concert. Plus, we’ve got some secret guest musicians lined up to join us onstage.”
For those lucky enough to attend, it’s a chance to experience the magic of Free Creatures in an intimate setting. From their genre-defying sound to their commitment to community and creativity, the band continues proving that they’re not just making music but creating moments.
Listen to the interview here:
Show info
Holiday Sale And Dance Party Featuring Free Creatures w/ Maggie Travers
Sweetwater Music Hall, Mill Valley
Thursday, December 12, 2024
Doors: 7 pm, Show: 8 pm
