
Feel the Fire
Sam and the Firewatchers are a Kansas-based band blending blues, classic rock, and bluegrass into dynamic performances and heartfelt originals, built on nearly two decades of collaboration and camaraderie.
Sam and the Firewatchers
Sam and the Firewatchers played their first professional gig together in 2016, however the band members have been creating together since long before then. All four grew up in Emporia, KS, which is located about an hour and a half west of Kansas City, Missouri. Sam Bland (guitar, harmonica) and Rick Garcia (bass) have been collaborating since as early as 2005, uniting later with Jake Riggs (ukulele, cajon,) around 2009. JD Pedersen (electric guitar) was recruited for his musical prowess in 2016 to round out the sound with the newly incoming flow of gigs.

Musically, the style is influenced by blues, classic rock, and bluegrass creating arrangements including upbeat tempos and multi-part harmonies with moments of bluesy-rock tones. The group has been evolving since its creation resulting in a sound and chemistry that only comes with years of teamwork and collaboration. Each performer is passionate about the quality of the product that is being produced.
Although the pandemic temporarily ended their live performances it also led to the creation of “Out of the Blue”, a self-produced album featuring songs written by Bland from 2012-2022. He currently has several more songs in the works and plans to record and release them in 2025.

Horse of a Different Color
Bland’s latest original folk songs are set to be recorded and released in 2025. With themes of growing older and wiser, world harmony, and righteousness at the forefront “Horse of a Different Color” hopes to mark a level of maturity and development in Bland’s songwriting. Emphasizing vocal harmonies and technical abilities with stringed instruments this music will aim to catch the listeners ear while captivating and inspiring them with engaging lyricism.
Book Sam and the Firewatchers
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