Rock music has long been a genre that thrives on raw energy and dynamic performances, and Leadbetter Band embodies that spirit perfectly. Since their formation in 2017, this Bend, Oregon-based trio has been making waves in the Pacific Northwest with their powerful blend of rock, jam, and eclectic songwriting. Led by the talented Eric Leadbetter on guitar and vocals, and supported by Aaron Moore on bass and Kaleb Kelleher on drums, Leadbetter Band delivers a sound that is both rooted in classic rock traditions and infused with modern influences. Known for their high-octane live shows, the band has built a dedicated following, leaving audiences craving more with every performance.
Their latest album ‘Cake’, released in 2023, showcases the band’s evolution and solidifies their presence as a unique force in rock music. After opening for iconic acts like ZZ Top and supporting Blues Traveler and Gov’t Mule, Leadbetter Band has proven their capability to command large stages and engage dedicated crowds. The band’s journey is marked by relentless touring, immersive live shows, and a deep commitment to their craft.
Eric Leadbetter’s journey as a musician began long before Leadbetter Band took shape. Having spent a decade touring with his previous band, Jive Coulis, Leadbetter decided to shift gears, settle down in central Oregon, and form a new project. The band’s debut self-titled album dropped in 2019 after a year of relentless gigging, quickly establishing Leadbetter Band as a regional powerhouse. The creative process behind their albums reflects the band’s open-minded approach to songwriting, with Leadbetter drawing from a wide range of musical influences to craft their eclectic sound.
A unique aspect of Leadbetter Band is their use of dual lead vocalists, with both Eric Leadbetter and Aaron Moore sharing vocal duties. This dynamic brings an added depth to their performances, creating a rich and textured sound. Tracks like “Reckless Abandon,” set to release in 2025, exemplify this approach, with both Leadbetter and Moore taking turns on lead vocals, adding a playful contrast to their live shows.
The recording of ‘Cake’ took place at Seattle’s Temple of the Trees studio with producer Joe Reineke. This collaboration elevated the band’s sound, with Reineke’s expertise and the studio’s high-end equipment allowing the band to explore new sonic landscapes. The result is an album that captures the band’s energy and soul, presenting their best work yet. Each track on ‘Cake’ embodies the camaraderie and creative synergy that exists within the group, resulting in a project that feels both cohesive and expansive.
As the band looks ahead to 2025, they’re preparing for an even busier schedule. With plans to record their fourth studio album at Bluejay Studios in Jacksonville, Oregon, and broaden their reach beyond the Pacific Northwest, Leadbetter Band is ready to take the next step in their musical journey. Whether it’s through their vibrant live shows or their evolving studio work, Leadbetter Band continues to push boundaries, crafting music that resonates with rock fans both old and new.
