Jalbatross, the new solo project from Motet guitarist Ryan Jalbert, has released a funky single, “Chomper”, off the group’s forthcoming debut EP.
The song is a raw, driving funk tune that is both laid back and upbeat, with a balance of expressive melody and dance-worthy groove. The quartet’s four voices weave in and around each other, layering complementary rhythms and textures to create a robust and cohesive groove, and the analog vintage production lends a classic vibe to the track.
In a post on social media, Jalbert expounded on the personal significance the project:
Tomorrow on June 22 I turn 40. Last year as I rounded 39, I made up my mind that I couldn’t hit the big 4-0 having not reached a personal goal of writing and producing an album of original music and doing it with one of my absolute favorite drummers of all time, my brother Colin. After combing through a big batch of music that I had recorded from home during the pandemic, I booked a couple days in the studio and recruited two of my best buddies to fill out the quartet – my lifelong pal and low-end maestro Tim Philpott (bass) and my dear bandmate and funk machine Joey Porter (keys). I sent out demos, we got Colin out to Denver, did a day of rehearsals and we went in and cut 6 songs in 2 days. We all played together, tracked to tape and we made a record. I’m really looking forward to sharing the 6 song Jalbatross EP later this summer but for now I can celebrate my 40th lap knowing I hit my goal – my album is in the bag and ready to rip.
Originally from western Massachusetts, Ryan Jalbert began studying guitar at age 12. He fell in love with the burgeoning New England jam scene of the late ’90s and early ’00s, and after earning a degree in Jazz Guitar he moved out to Colorado where he was recruited to join The Motet. He has served as the band’s guitarist ever since 2005.
Jalbert has honed his chops freelancing with various artists and tours while also writing, recording, and touring full time with The Motet. When the pandemic forced him to take time off the road, he got busy writing new music. As the lockdown came to an end, he found himself with a batch of original material that was ripe for release.
In July 2021, Ryan booked a studio session and tracked six songs in two days with the help of his brother Colin Jalbert on drums, lifelong friend Tim Philpott on bass, and The Motet keyboardist Joey Porter on keys. Recorded using analog gear and vintage tones, the resulting Jalbatross EP is the sound of four friends and skilled musicians doing what they do best.
“Chomper” is now available on all streaming platforms. Listen to the track in via Bandcamp in the player below.
Jalbatross – “Chomper”