Biography
People Museum is a pop art and electronic band formed in 2016 by Jeremy Phipps and Claire Givens in the Treme neighborhood of New Orleans, Louisiana. Both Louisiana natives, Phipps (producer/trombonist) and Givens (composer/singer) sought to create a sound that blends the rich musical traditions of New Orleans with modern electronic and pop influences. Their music is characterized by lush synth textures, soulful vocals, and a DIY ethos, with the group being deeply involved in all aspects of their production and artistic direction.
The band expanded to include Aaron Boudreaux and Charles Lumar II, further enriching their sonic palette. People Museum's work is often described as innovative, merging dream pop and electronic elements with the cultural vibrancy of New Orleans. Their debut album, 'I Dreamt You in Technicolor,' showcases their unique approach, drawing comparisons to artists like Brian Eno and the atmospheric qualities of Twin Peaks, while still maintaining a distinct New Orleans flavor. The group is known for their hands-on approach, producing, composing, and performing their music independently, which has garnered them a dedicated local following and critical acclaim within the New Orleans arts community.
People Museum's legacy is rooted in their ability to bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary sounds, making them a standout act in the New Orleans music scene. Their commitment to artistic experimentation and community engagement continues to influence emerging musicians in the region.
Fun Facts
- People Museum's debut album is titled 'I Dreamt You in Technicolor,' reflecting their interest in vivid, cinematic soundscapes.
- The band produced a four-song EP inspired by the life and work of renowned artist Louise Bourgeois.
- Their sound has been described as 'Brian Eno producing dream pop in New Orleans, while a second line struts by, and Twin Peaks plays on the TV.'
- People Museum is known for their strong DIY ethic, handling all aspects of their music production and artistic presentation themselves.
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- New Orleans musical tradition - The band draws significant inspiration from the diverse musical heritage of New Orleans, including jazz, brass, and second line traditions. (General influence across discography) [2016–present]
Key Collaborators
- Claire Givens - Co-founder, composer, and singer; primary songwriting and performance partner (All People Museum releases) [2016–present]
- Jeremy Phipps - Co-founder, producer, and trombonist; primary songwriting and production partner (All People Museum releases) [2016–present]
- Aaron Boudreaux - Band member, contributes to production and live performances (Band projects and live shows) [2016–present]
- Charles Lumar II - Band member, contributes to production and live performances (Band projects and live shows) [2016–present]
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Relic | 2023-11-10 | Album |
| Live From Marigny Opera House | 2025-03-28 | Album |
| I Dreamt You in Technicolor | 2018-09-28 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Ice (I Could Only See Night)
- Sleep (I Could Only See Night)
- Saturn Rings (Relic)
- All I Need (Live From Marigny Opera House) (All I Need (Live From Marigny Opera House))
- Magnolias Meet Me (Magnolias Meet Me)
- Saturn Rings (Saturn Rings)
- Relic (Relic)
- A Weight Gets Lighter/Magnolias Meet Me - Live From Marigny Opera House (Live From Marigny Opera House)
- Time (Time)
- Back To Myself (Relic)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
People Museum has been played 4 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 5, 2026 | 23:41 | Close 2 Youfrom I Dreamt You in Technicolor | Kitchen Sinkw/ Jennifer Brady | |
| Dec 29, 2025 | 12:05 | Saturn Ringsfrom Live At The Marigny Opera House | New Orleans Music Showw/ Murf Reeves | |
| Nov 20, 2025 | 12:32 | Saturn Ringsfrom Live From Marigny Opera House | New Orleans Music Showw/ Michael Dominici | |
| Sep 25, 2025 | 23:38 | Time | Kitchen Sinkw/ Jennifer Brady |