Pretend Friend
Pretend Friend is a nationally touring progressive acoustic band based in Wichita, Kansas. Known for combining elements of bluegrass, folk, rock, and jam band music, Pretend Friend melds raw energy and soulful expression into timeless original songs "that seem to have always been." Pretend Friend grew from the combined inspiration of rock and roll, Kansas bluegrass culture, and the jamming tradition of the Walnut Valley Festival. Their music is a genre-bending fusion of styles, showcasing intricate musicianship and unbridled songwriting, and delivered through electrifying performances comparable to any rock show.
Pretend Friend was founded in 2015 by singer, songwriter, and guitarist, Grant Boesen. Boesen's commanding tenor voice serves as the unmistakeable identifying force driving the band's sound, drawing comparisons to iconic vocalists like Shannon Hoon (Blind Melon), Geddy Lee (Rush), and Chris Cornell (Soundgarden). Boesen is a classically trained vocalist, guitarist, and music school dropout, and he has won awards for songwriting, flat-picking, and finger-style guitar playing. Reflecting an eclectic variety of influences, including Dave Matthews, Paul Simon, Bruce Hornsby, Tony Rice, and Doc Watson, Boesen's songwriting blends contemplative lyrics with thematic melodies.
In 2017, Pretend Friend's lineup was enhanced with the addition of Evan Ogborn, a champion mandolinist whose creativity and dynamic style have been formative in developing the band’s unique sound. Ogborn's jazz training, relentless dedication, and uninhibited performance energy make him a formidable stage presence and songwriter. Together, Boesen and Ogborn have earned a reputation for their innovative arrangements and fearless musical approach.
In 2024, Pretend Friend further elevated its lineup with the addition of Caleb Drummond, a virtuoso bassist from Wichita known for his punctual style and deep groove. Drummond brings a new dimension to the band's sound, anchoring the rhythm section with an expert sense of musicality. Drummond’s work across multiple genres, including jazz, folk, and bluegrass, lays a solid foundation for Pretend Friend’s sound while adding a rich complexity to their performances. Drummond graduated from Friends University in 2011 with Bachelors of Arts in music performance for upright and electric bass, as well as a Bachelors of Science in music business. He has been a private instructor at Damm Music since 2012.
Also joining Pretend Friend in 2024 is Rami Stucky, a skilled drummer from Wichita whose finesse, rhythmic precision, and refined experience have energized the band's live shows. Stucky’s background in jazz injects a fresh, percussive energy into the group, enhancing their ability to seamlessly blend the acoustic and the electrifying. His drumming adds an exciting layer of intensity to Pretend Friend’s high-octane performances. Stucky can also be heard on Monitor’s Memorand (2017) and Dave Raskin’s Loose the Shades (2022). Both albums are available wherever you stream music.
With Boesen, Ogborn, Drummond, and Stucky at the helm, Pretend Friend has become a more powerful force than ever, pushing the boundaries of acoustic music. Whether performing original material or putting their spin on a classic tune, Pretend Friend captivates audiences with their infectious energy, virtuosic musicianship, and fearless exploration of new sonic landscapes.
