Since their formation in 2017, the Leadbetter Band has steadily carved out a distinct place in the Pacific Northwest music scene, building their reputation through electrifying live performances and genre-blurring songwriting. The trio, helmed by frontman Eric Leadbetter (guitar, vocals), alongside Aaron Moore (bass, vocals) and Kaleb Kelleher (drums, backing vocals), is known for their ability to blend vintage rock, jam-band improvisation, and eclectic sonic experimentation.
Hailing from Bend, Oregon, Leadbetter Band isn’t just another local group trying to make waves—they’re pushing boundaries with their sound, creating a musical fusion that pulls from classic rock’s storied past while injecting it with a contemporary edge. Their 2023 album, Cake, is a testament to this, produced by the legendary Joe Reineke at Seattle’s Temple of the Trees studio. The result is a polished yet gritty collection of tracks that demonstrate the band’s evolution from regional performers to serious contenders in the rock world.
At the heart of their appeal is a live show that transcends the average rock performance. Tight, polished, and unpredictable, their gigs are more than a simple exhibition of musicianship—they’re an immersive experience. Whether it’s the high-octane riffs of “Grand Misconception” or the bluesy sway of “Challenge Me,” Leadbetter Band knows how to keep their audience hooked. Having dual lead vocalists, with Moore sharing frontman duties alongside Leadbetter, adds another layer of depth and dynamism to their stage presence.
Their ability to command a crowd hasn’t gone unnoticed, and their opening slots for the likes of ZZ Top, Blues Traveler, and Gov’t Mule prove they’re in esteemed company. Not many independent acts can claim such a stacked résumé so early in their career, and it’s a clear indicator that this trio is destined for bigger stages.
But it’s not just their performances that captivate. The band’s songwriting is equally compelling. Leadbetter Band’s ability to channel the spirit of classic rock while infusing it with jam band flair and a bit of modern twist is what truly sets them apart. Songs like “Grand Misconception” feel like they could’ve been plucked straight out of the 70s rock canon, yet they have a fresh energy that makes them feel entirely contemporary. This balance between homage and innovation is where Leadbetter Band thrives.
Looking forward, Leadbetter Band continues to tour extensively, solidifying their status as one of the most exciting independent live acts to catch. Upcoming shows, including a headline performance at Bend’s Silver Moon Brewing and dates across the state, promise more of the same high-energy, eclectic rock that has become their calling card. If you haven’t had the chance to see them live, now’s the time.
Leadbetter Band’s music, particularly their latest offerings, proves that they’re not content with simply riding the waves of nostalgia. They’re artists in their own right, with a clear vision of how rock can be both reverent of its roots and daringly forward-thinking.
