Diggin’ Dirt
Diggin Dirt has been planting its roots in Humboldt County since 2011 and its growth has shown no signs of slowing. Ranging from Roots Rock Reggae to Afrobeat and Heavy Funk, Diggin Dirt searches the earth for the dirtiest of grooves to make you dance and enjoy every bit of life. You gotta dig that dirt!
The initial members of Diggin’ Dirt originated mostly from Southern California and also the Humboldt area. It was the heavy influence of Reggae (that dominated SoCal back in the late 2000’s and continues to dominate today) and the love of funky grooves that gives Dirt its unique and positive sound. Rory Urquhart (lead guitar), Joey Incorvaia (drums), John Callahan (Bass), Drew Weitzel (rhythm guitar), and Aaron Gottesman (tenor sax) formed in Arcata while attending Humboldt State University. Amid Northern California’s historic giant redwoods and rugged coastline, there was an instant chemistry and a kinship that quickly developed.
The band went through different incarnations, changing personnel over time, but always managed to maintain the core five. While staying true to its roots rock reggae beginnings, the band began to take on more of a heavy funk flavor — with a 70’s vibe. That became even more pronounced a few years later when Josh Foster(Trombone) and Tyler Martin (Bari Sax) came onboard — completing the funky horn line.
The final piece was added in the fall of 2016 when Zach Alder (vocalist) joined the band. A gifted and soulful vocalist who hails from the Eureka area and the foothills of Placerville. He added the missing voice to a band in search of a complete sound. After traveling far and wide, Zach found a band of brothers in Humboldt.
Together the band makes a joyful sound. Funky and Reggae to its core and quickly gaining the reputation as one of the finest live bands on the West Coast. Dirt aims to perform high energy sets and keep audiences dancing with positive vibes and deep funky grooves.
The band is influenced by Orgone and James Brown and Funkadelic. Bootsy Collins and Sly and the Family Stone as well as reggae bands like Steel Pulse and 10ft Ganja Plant. Dirt has appeared at several festivals including the Trinity River Jamboree, Northern Nights, the Benbow Summer Arts and Music Festival.
2018 promises to be a big year for the band as they venture out on numerous tours and perform at many other exciting festivals along the way.
“Dusty Roads, gonna take me there…I aint traveling far. Packing my suitcase…tie my nap sack tight and I took off down the road. Telling all my friends not to miss me none, down in the valley below…and I know, I’m gonna find it…it’s just a matter of time” – Diggin’ Dirt