SNACKTIME isn’t just a band — it’s a feeling. And on the Mann stage at Roots Picnic 2025, that feeling hit like a sonic wave. The horns were heavy, the rhythm was alive, and the energy was undeniable. Watching them in action, it’s hard to believe it all started five years ago… in the streets of Philadelphia. Yesseh Furaha-Ali (vocals, alto sax, percussion), Sam Gellerstein (sousaphone), Austin Marlow (drums), Larry Monroe Jr. (guitar), Eric Sherman (trumpet, guitar), Michael Spearman (trombone, keyboard), and Ben Stocker (tenor sax). The band also features a rotating cast of instrumentalists who join for different performances.
Photo By: Bob Sweeney
I got to sit down with a few members of the band and get to know them a little more. I asked “How did you guys come together to create a sound that’s so in sync?” Gellerstein answered, “We really got lucky….We’re lucky to get a group of guys who were able to operate on the same wavelength and feed off of each other’s energies and song knowledge.” What began as a street performance experiment during the pandemic has since grown into a full-fledged musical movement.
Before the band became a touring force, Sam had already started a special event series also called Snacktime in 2019. It was a space to spotlight lesser-known artists and local chefs. “It was awesome,” he says as he reflected on a great memory.
Now, the group’s journey has taken them from Philly sidewalks to mountain tops — literally. Their cross country tour alongside acts like Portugal. The Man, and Karl Denson opened new doors. Michael shared they’ll soon be heading on tour with Fitz and the Tantrums in August. And while the heights (both musical and physical) can be intimidating, SNACKTIME keeps it grounded.
“There’s nothing to fear as long as you’re doing what you love,” Yesseh told HHS87, as Boots on the Ground plays behind him. “Gotta stay ten toes,” he adds, slapping a size 10 boot onto the table with a grin. “Stay firm in what you believe.”
Photo by: Ben Sweeney
It’s that mix of confidence, camaraderie, and contagious joy that makes SNACKTIME so magnetic. “We’re a band of brothers,” Yesseh shares candidly. “We love the music and we love each other. If you continue to love what you do and the people you’re surrounded by, good things will happen.”
When asked what his favorite part of performing with SNACKTIME is, Nico Bryant (vocals) doesn’t hesitate. “I’m a lover of music and I’m a fan of SNACKTIME. I’m here by the grace of God. I don’t think too much about the notes I have to hit. I just let it flow and trust in what we rehearsed.” He admits that as performing artists much of their focus is to create an unforgettable experience for their fans. “No matter what I may be going through. It’s about love and unity when using the stage as a release to uplift others. If one person is touched by that, we’ve done our job.”
SNACKTIME’s set at Roots Picnic 2025 was more than a performance — it was a reminder of what can happen when passion, purpose, and community come together. From street corners to festival stages, their journey is still unfolding, but one thing’s for sure: their sound is rooted in love, lifted by brotherhood, and made to move people — BOOTS and soul. lol
© 2025, Siani Leigh. All rights reserved.
