Big Dopes with The Double And

“Captivating indie-pop earworm vignettes of American malaise and hope.” – Tom Murphy, Birdy Magazine

Big Dopes recalls the loose, lighthearted feel of 90s alternative and indie, like Built to Spill and The Glands. Lead songwriter Eddie Schmid (also of Denver dream-pop band Oxeye Daisy) uses a playful, conversational baritone to sing through neuroses about long-distance relationships, being a houseguest, and wasting money on shitty headphones.
Veteran drummer Ricky Brewer lends a steady groove and harmonies, and Justin Catanzaro’s bass often takes the lead, playing energetic, melodic lines. Paul Simmons joined the band as a fourth member in 2019, playing guitar, synth, and violin.

In August 2019, the band released its debut album, Crimes Against Gratitude, produced by Simmons. The 10-song LP features contributions from a slew of Denver musicians. That shaggy camaraderie comes across distinctly in “Song of the Summer,” the album’s closer and first single. Lela Roy of Oxeye Daisy contributed vocals and birdcalls, Ilya Litoshik of Turvy Organ chipped in acoustic guitar, and Josh Fuson of Montropo played congas. In December that year, Crimes Against Gratitude was named one of the top albums of the year by Birdy Magazine, and one of the Top Colorado Albums of 2019 by Colorado Public Radio.

COVID-19 Policy:
Effective Wed, August 11, both VENUES at Lulu’s Downstairs will require guests to show proof of full vaccination or a negative test taken within the past 48 hours before entering the venue. Upon arrival, all guests must present a STATE ID along with a completed COVID-19 vaccination card, or proof of their negative COVID-19 test result. Vaccination cards may be presented at the box office with a paper or digital copy/picture. Effective Friday, October 1st, all venues at Lulu’s Downstairs will require ALL guests to present a completed vaccination card. We will continue to monitor regulations and local cases to inform our policy. Thank you for your understanding and support.