Since their formation in 2017, Leadbetter Band has been captivating audiences with their dynamic fusion of rock, jam, and eclectic songwriting. Led by the powerhouse Eric Leadbetter (guitar, vocals) and driven by the talents of Aaron Moore (bass, vocals) and Kaleb Kelleher (drums, backing vocals), this Bend, Oregon-based band has built a reputation for delivering unforgettable live performances that leave fans energized and wanting more. Their original music, ranging from high-energy rock anthems to blues-infused tracks, sets them apart in the Pacific Northwest’s music scene. With a sound rooted in classic rock yet infused with modern influences, the band’s performances have become a must-see experience.
Following the release of their third studio album Cake in 2023, Leadbetter Band continues to make waves with their unique approach to songwriting and high-octane shows. Having opened for rock icons like ZZ Top and supported acts such as Blues Traveler and Gov’t Mule, the band is no stranger to large stages and dedicated crowds. Today, we chat with Eric Leadbetter about the band’s formation, creative process, and their journey toward broader horizons as they gear up for their next exciting chapter.
Leadbetter Band was born in 2017, and since then, you’ve built a reputation for your eclectic sound. Can you tell us the story behind the formation of the band? How did everything come together in those early days?
Leadbetter Band was born out of the fumes blasting out of the veggie oil-powered school bus, Sharleena. Shar carried my old band, Jive Coulis, up and over various mountain ranges and plains to the seas for 10 years. After much consideration and evolution, I decided to change directions and retire Jive Coulis and the bus. This allowed me to root down in central Oregon and to re-imagine a new sound as well as fresh songs to reach a wider audience. At its conception, Leadbetter Band featured Patrick Pearsall on bass and Dylan Bernal on drums. This rhythm section gelled so well with my original music that we quickly were on the road for short runs, playing festivals, and regional clubs and venues. After just over a year of working hard, the three of us went to the studio for the Leadbetter Band self-titled full album released in 2019. We were brought together by our love of vintage rock n roll and a great work ethic that drove the new “bus.”
Your debut album was released in 2019, followed by Howl in 2021, and now your latest album Cake in 2023. How would you describe the progression in your music across these albums?
As stated before, the debut album came after a year of playing heavily with Pearsall and Bernal. I continued to write throughout and kept introducing new material to the gents. After another year of gigging hard and working on tunes, the 2020 music era hit and put a hold on some momentum. We decided to get after it in the studio during the lull in the entertainment industry and had a blast working on “Howl” together. We were all so hungry for the connection and missed shining together during those cold months, so we threw down a lot of great energy on those tracks. This album came out right before we opened for ZZ Top at the Britt Amphitheater in Jacksonville, Oregon.
After meeting Aaron Moore (lead vocals, bass) and reconnecting with Kaleb Kelleher (drums, backup vocals), I knew that we were supposed to play together. At that time, and with a heavy heart, I changed the rhythm section to include Moore and Kelleher. Pearsall and Bernal remain brothers from other mothers to this day, though the musical bond is unbroken. Once the new crew got busy, it took some time to get a great group of songs for different set lists, but we hit the stages immediately and continued to sync more and more with every show. After introducing and crafting 11 tunes for ‘Cake,’ we were ready for the studio. We went to record with Seattle legend Joe Reineke in Seattle at Temple of the Trees studio. Being in a studio of this quality and working with a brilliant mind like Joe, this quickly became our album filled with new experiences, hope, and endless soul in the brotherhood we share. This album elevated my original music beyond anything I could have imagined. I will say the way the 3 of us in the band communicate, question, and experiment with the music is where it’s at. I release the tension on the reins, and the music becomes its best through trusting my hard-working and intuitive bandmates.
Can you tell us about your creative process when writing for the band? How do you balance different styles while maintaining a cohesive sound?
I always say I’m a melting pot of all of the music I’ve loved throughout my life. I like a lot of different styles, so that’s reflected in my music. It’s all about being creative, not pigeonholing myself, and being bold enough to write what resonates with me, not what I believe people will like.
You and Aaron Moore share lead vocal duties, which is unique for a band. How do you decide who takes the lead on different tracks, and what impact does this dynamic have on your performances?
Having two lead vocalists is a blast! We share the duties of harmony that way as well, which adds different textures. A lot of times I present my original tunes to Aaron to see if he would be down to sing lead; the answer is usually yes. I always say, “It’s nice to be in a band with your favorite singer!”. That’s directed at Aaron Moore, who crushes it on lead vocals. It opens up a lot with duets as well. A new song, “Reckless Abandon,” to be released in 2025, was written by both of us, and we share lead vocal duties like a slick game of ping pong.
Leadbetter Band is known for its engaging live performances, having opened for major acts like ZZ Top, Govt Mule, and Blues Traveler. What have been some of your most memorable experiences performing live?
Opening for ZZ Top blew my mind! One of my first riffs was “tush,” so it was full circle. Wieser River Music Fest was off the charts, my new favorite regional gathering. UsFest in Oregon was one of my favorite shows as well. It was a beautiful smaller festival with the nicest folks and art as far as the eye could see. Playing at the Ross Ragland Theater in Klamath Falls opening for Verve Pipe was cool too. Brilliant theater and an engaged crowd. Govt Mule is one of my biggest inspirations musically, so being part of that was incredible.
What do you enjoy most about playing live shows, and how do you adapt your setlist for different types of venues and audiences?
I love playing live because, after doing this for many years, it has become a live art meditative experience. Every room, crowd, mood, and vibe is going to be different. So knowing that helps me get rooted and remember to arrive at each performance moment with no expectations. The live music experience is big medicine for us all, and I love being a participant in that.
Your latest album, Cake, was produced by Joe Reineke at Temple of the Trees studio. How was the recording process with Joe, and what made this collaboration special?
Recording with Joe really challenged us and stepped up the whole group game. The studio has top-of-the-line vintage and modern gear, and the man behind the board knows how to use the tools. The whole experience carries a spirit that was embodied in the album; it’s tangible.
With Cake released in 2023 and a busy touring schedule in 2024, what’s next for Leadbetter Band? Are there any new projects or directions you’re excited to explore?
We’re so grateful to have gotten invited to play many music festivals and amazing venues in 2024, and the band put a ton of miles on the tour rig getting around the Pacific Northwest. Our goal in 2025 and beyond is to broaden our reach. We’ve always been a grassroots, self-managed, “working musician” group. But we’re taking the steps to play for larger audiences and events as the map keeps growing for us. We’re also thrilled to go into the studio to record Leadbetter Band’s 4th studio album at Bluejay Studios in Jacksonville, Oregon. It’s got great songs on it, and we’re excited to immerse ourselves in a fresh musical experience!
Leadbetter Band is keeping the energy high with a string of live performances this year, bringing their eclectic rock sound to venues across the Pacific Northwest. Be sure to catch them live as they continue to captivate audiences with their dynamic stage presence and unforgettable shows. For full tour dates and ticket information, visit their official website.