Fruit Bats Members, Gear & Sound
US indie/folk rock band
Members
Select a Fruit Bats band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
Fruit Bats is an indie folk-rock band led by the creative force of Eric D. Johnson (vocals, guitar, keyboards). Originating in Chicago in the late '90s, Fruit Bats has seen various lineups, but Johnson's warm vocals and melodic sensibility remain the cornerstone of their music. Blending elements of indie rock, indie pop, and new Americana, their sound has been compared to the likes of The Byrds and The Kinks. With a discography spanning over two decades, Fruit Bats have made their mark with albums such as Echolocation, Spelled in Bones, and The Pet Parade.
How to Sound Like Fruit Bats
Fruit Bats' music is characterized by its warm, melodic textures and the breezy, bittersweet sensibility that threads through their compositions. Their sound often features the rich, organic tones of a Fender Telecaster, complemented by the unique atmospheric qualities of the Roland RE-201 Space Echo. The use of vintage elements, such as the Fender Rhodes Mark II Stage Piano 73, adds a timeless layer of warmth and depth. These instruments create a sonic landscape that is both nostalgic and fresh, appealing to those who appreciate a blend of introspective lyrics and inviting melodies.
Discography
Echolocation
2001
Mouthfuls
2003
Spelled In Bones
2005
The Ruminant Band
2009
Tripper
2011
Absolute Loser
2016
Gold Past Life
2019
Found a Round Stone: Live in Portland
2020
The Glory of Fruit Bats
2020
The Pet Parade
2021
Siamese Dream
2021
Sometimes a Cloud Is Just a Cloud: Slow Growers, Sleeper Hits and Lost Songs (2001–2021)
2022
A River Running to Your Heart
2023
Starry-eyed, in Stereo
2024
Baby Man
2025
Get the Fruit Bats Sound
Want to sound like Fruit Bats? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.