Slightly Stoopid's Miles Doughty riffs on longevity, touring and the band's affinity for the California Roots Festival.

After 20 years, Slightly Stoopid co-founder Miles Doughty (guitar, bass, vocals) says that while they always remain faithful to their sound—a reggae-rock hip-hop hybrid with SoCal roots—they're never scared to venture into new territory. 

For instance, the group frequently collaborates with longtime jam band fave, saxophonist Karl Denson, who appears on their forthcoming Meanwhile… Back at the Lab (out June 30th.) Denson will also appear with the band Cali Roots in Monterey (9:30pm Sunday) and throughout their summer tour.

However, there are some things that are non-negotiable, as far as change, in the world of Slightly Stoopid.

"Creative control is most important," Doughty explains. "We will never relinquish it; it's part of who we are. Our common goal is to make the best music possible and enjoy ourselves in the process. It’s rad to be able to do what we do—tour the world with our best friends and play music.”

What's the secret to remaining relevant for more than two decades?

Doughty credits the outfit’s grassroots sensibility, which is characterized by a tireless dedication to consistent touring.

“We dip into cities multiple times, so we’ve had the same core fanbase for years,” he says. “Then the core fanbase has grown as we’ve toured around the world.”

Slightly Stoopid's Summer 2015 tour is set to hit 40-plus cities with Dirty Heads (6pm Saturday; The Bowl), The Expendables and Stick Figure.

Doughty says touring never gets old.

"It’s just fun to see your music reach thousands," he says. "Music reaches the soul."

And Cali Roots is one of Slightly Stoopid's favorite festivals to play.

"The vibes are amazing," Doughty says. "This year will be great, especially because our boys Cypress Hill (6pm Sunday; The Bowl) will also be there."