Based out of Missoula, The Benevolents are a groovy folk-rock five-piece that blends ripping guitar and fiddle solos, catchy vocal harmonies, and a driving rhythmic flow into funky, meter-crossing tunes.
The band primarily plays the globally-influenced compositions of John Kratz, lead singer and finger-style electric guitarist, who writes and sings in English and Spanish about nature, beauty, love, and loss. Holly Riley animates the music with her precise harmonies and energetic fiddle playing. Michael Calucchia adds his powerful voice and sizzling keyboards to the mix. Holding down the rhythm section are Daniel Kiely, who brings a bit of Alabama soul to his driving drum beats, and Ryan Stiles, groovemaster extraordinaire on the bass.
The band has released two live albums on Bandcamp, “Live at Union Theater” and “Benevolents Live 2023”. They also released a music video of “In Your Moonlight” on YouTube.