Crackpot Theory formed in the later part of the year 2001. Sam (guitar) and Tony (bass) played in a Sabbath/Zepplin/Doors cover band in 1993 and 1994. They parted ways until 1998 when Sam asked Tony to join his band. Derick (vocals) was in the band with Sam already and then they were in search of a drummer. They had a friend of a friend (Jesse) come jam one night and they clicked. The chemistry was in perfect order musically and luckily they are all Star Wars junkies. They have played with the likes of Mike Watt and The Secondmen and Eyes Adrift, which featured members of Nirvana, Sublime and the Meat Puppets. They released their debut album in the early part of 2004 entitled "Let's Fight" and continue play and rock the socks off of anyone who hears them. Four ordinary guys come together to create a sound that is original and innovative...


Sam, the guitarist, whose influences are rooted in classic rock and heavy metal bands such as AC/DC, Black Sabbath, and most recently, Dimmu Borgir plays either a Gibson SG or Les Paul through a Marshall. This combination of equipment and influence shines through in his playing. His sound is big and loud, yet quiet and subdued depending on the song and his style of playing is both unique and entertaining. His stage presence is a vital part of the band. He uses a variety of effects ranging from traditional Marshall distortion to delay and an octave/whammy pedal.


Derick, the singer, has a unique style all his own. He writes poetic and deep, heartfelt lyrics and sings them with a melody and style that seems to manifest itself with no effort. The words and sounds just seem to come out. But when he screams, you can't help but wonder if that is the same person. He uses a delay pedal to emphasise and extend his voice, but uses it tastefully and sparingly. He is heavily influenced by the sounds of Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Tool and A Perfect Circle. His stage presence is humble, yet monstrous and always spectacular.


Jesse, the drummer, is a seasoned professional. With almost two decades of musical experience, he is an integral part of the band. His solid grooves and tight, but relaxed style make for a sound that fits the music perfectly. He plays a five piece set that consists of a classic 24 inch kick drum, two snare drums and two toms. His influences range from heavy metal to jazz and even classical. He graduated from San Francisco State University with his masters degree in music/percussion performance in June of 2005. His ideas and personality are a vital part of the band and help bring the songs to life.


Tony, the bass player, plays an Ibanez bass through an Ampeg SVT. He uses effects that range from distortion to delay and a ring modulator. This is how he gets the spacey sounds that help to create the sounds of Crackpot Theory. His influences range from rock to metal to jazz. He is also heavily influenced by Dimmu Borgir. He lays down bass lines that are both complex and simple and his sounds tend to resemble those of the great Mike Watt. During live shows he usually chills in the shadows and settles into the groove.


Crackpot Theory is a band that would not or could not exist without these four human beings. The music that they create could not be created any other way. The sights, sounds and energy that each one of them contribute are what makes Crackpot Theory what it is, a great rock band.