Talented songwriter/producer/multi-instrumentalist Pete Hopkins is one of those rare musicians that not only has his act together, but he’s a genuinely down to earth kind of guy. Not that he needs an overabundance of words or ego to let you know how cool he is; his music more than does the job in that regard. With a deceptively strong voice that is soulfully reminiscent of Todd Rundgren and the instrumental acumen (he expertly handles guitar, bass, keyboards and drums with equal competence), Pete doesn’t rely on a straightforward pop sound to hook you. Rather, he draws from a wide variety of influences that include Stevie Wonder, John Williams, The Doors, Jamiroquai, Joe Satriani and many, many others. The resulting songs are that rare combination of sounding shiny and new while playfully hearkening back to either an earlier time or different note than you might be expecting. In just a few short years Pete has garnered not only strong fan support, but lots of radio play in both Seattle and Los Angeles, where he currently resides. Not one to forget the Northwest, Pete still plays shows in Washington state, much to the benefit of those who make it out to see him.

To sample Pete Hopkin’s music head on over to his MySpace page and crank your speakers up LOUD. One warning, you won’t be able to sit still while these infectious songs are playing. There you will also find information about his upcoming shows. Two shows in particular are happening very soon. The first is at The Mint in LA on Wednesday, June 24th. Click here for ticket info. If you’re in Seattle, then you’ll want ot click here to pick up some tickets for Pete’s June 28th show at the Showbox SoDo Lounge. Before that I strongly recommend you pick up his self-produced album, Odd Size Baggage right here and familiarize yourself will all twelve of its tracks. One final footnote, don’t take my word on how laid back Pete is, find out for yourself by talking to him directly on MySpace, Facebook or Twitter. Stay tuned to Pop Culture Zoo for more on Pete Hopkins soon including, hopefully, an interview!