Sullivan's Backstage Pass: Sleeper Wave

In this episode, we sit down with Portland youth blues band Sleeper Wave—Cameron Kirkman (guitar, vocals), Jonah Bradbury (keyboards), Juliette Bull (bass), and Evan Shumate (drums)—to talk about where their story started and how they found their voice in the city’s vibrant music scene.We dive into the band’s origins, the passion that first drew them to the blues, and the influences that continue to shape their sound today—from classic blues legends to modern, genre-bending artists. The conversation explores how Sleeper Wave writes and arranges songs together, how they collaborate onstage and in rehearsal, and what it takes to stay motivated while juggling school, gigs, and the realities of being a young working band in Portland.Along the way, the band offers practical tips for young musicians: finding your first gigs, building chemistry with your bandmates, owning your tone, and staying connected to the local scene. Join us as we explore the journey of Sleeper Wave, their musical influences, creative process, and tips for young musicians—discover how they develop their sound, collaborate, and stay inspired in the Portland blues community.