Roo AOTD #3 Dispatch

By Daniel Karasek | February 5, 2025

All aboard the hype train for Bonnaroo 2025! Only 127 days until we are all on the Farm again, can you believe it? It’s coming up fast and we can’t wait to be dancing with all of you at Bonnaroo! Today’s Artist of the Day is the one and only Dispatch at Bonnaroo. Learn more about the artist below. Don’t forget to check out all of our artist spotlights! Thank you for reading these posts!

Featured is all members of Dispatch — Dispatch

Artist Biography

Dispatch, the American indie/roots band, has been a cornerstone of the indie music scene since their formation in 1996. Originating from Middlebury, Vermont, the trio—Chad Urmston, Brad Corrigan, and Pete Heimbold—crafted a unique blend of acoustic folk-rock, reggae, and funk. Their early performances, notably at Middlebury College, showcased their versatility and set the stage for their expansive sound.

In 2002, Dispatch announced an indefinite hiatus following a performance on The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson. This hiatus lasted nearly a decade, during which the band members pursued individual projects. However, their bond with their audience remained unbroken. In 2011, Dispatch reunited, releasing new material and embarking on a national tour, reaffirming their enduring connection with fans.

Throughout their career, Dispatch has been celebrated for their genre-blending style, seamlessly integrating elements of reggae, flamenco, funk, ska, folk, rock, and rap. This eclectic mix has not only defined their sound but also set them apart in the indie music landscape.

Beyond their musical endeavors, Dispatch has demonstrated a commitment to social causes. The song “Elias,” inspired by Urmston’s experiences in Zimbabwe, led to the creation of the Elias Fund in 2005, aiming to provide hope and opportunity to Zimbabwean youth through community development and education.

As of 2024, Dispatch continues to captivate audiences with their dynamic performances and socially conscious music, solidifying their legacy as a pivotal force in the indie music scene.