I saw them in the UK early last year or late the previous year. Very good live band, great thought provoking lyrics....
I don't know much about Michael Franti and his influences. But that gig was the first I'd ever heard of him and felt the Gil Scott heron influence quite strongly.
Far too loud tho... ( No, thats not an age thing, it just was).
Not as loud as the Who concert by a long shot. I Saw the Who when I was about 18..... That is still the loudest thing I have ever heard in my life.
Jazzyvee