What’s up everybody?!? As you may or may not already know, everybody’s favorite prog rock jammers, Moogatu, are releasing a brand new, professionally done studio album, titled, “MEAT”. Recently, we actually got the chance to connect with one of the lead guitarists of the band, Chris Lee, to pick his brain a little on how they picked the songs to put on the album, collaborating with a jazz legend and icon, and what is next in the world of Moogatu. Check out what he has to say, and even stream the whole album right here while perusing the interview!
Mark your calendars as well, Saturday, August 2nd at Jammin’ Java, don’t miss out on the dual album release extravaganza, featuring not only the release of Moogatu’s “MEAT”, but also Nicky C and The RSB’s new album, “Much Obliged”.
1. When/how did you all decide that a studio album was going to be your next mountain to climb?
CL: We thought it was about time that we had a really high quality recording out and available. Soundboards and AUDs are nice, but we wanted something crisp and polished.
2. Going through your guys’ entire song catalog, how did you pick which ones were going to be on the album?
CL: The majority of the songs on the album are all pretty much live staples that we’ve perfected over the past couple of years. We chose them because they had all matured over time and it felt like the right moment to record them. We also did not want to repeat any songs from our first EP. Musically, the band also felt all of these songs meshed well together as one cohesive piece of work.
3. Did you all enjoy the recording process? How soon are you guys looking to get back in the studio?
CL: We loved the recording process! Speaking for only myself, I’ve never been completely satisfied with the recording process until now. The album was recorded at Mystery Ton Studios in Monrovia, MD with Kenny Eaton earlier this year. I had a blast recording there. It was a very relaxed atmosphere and Kenny really has a great ear and is easy to work with. Not to mention, we’re really happy with how the album came out, sonically. I’ve never been so happy recording guitar before. We’re currently brewing up some new ideas too, so stay tuned!
4. Ron Holloway, a very well-known and respected jazz musician, has been seen collaborating with you guys live and on the album. How did that relationship start? What’s it like playing with an icon such as himself?
CL: I still pinch myself every time Ron plays with us. Before we even started collaborating, he was one of my favorite horn players. I had first seen him sit in with Gov’t Mule and the Allman Brothers in the early 2000’s and have been following him since. The first time I had the pleasure of meeting Ron was in early 2012. My friend Dan Steele and his band “Covered With Jam” sometimes has Ron sit in and I decided to check them out at a local club. I introduced myself and we kept in contact over the next few months. Eventually, we would cross paths again and he ended up sitting in with us for a few tunes. One musical conversation led to another, and that led to Ron donating his talents and sitting in on a track on our record.
I’m really excited about the track he plays on, “Appreciation”. (check it out right below!) It’s a tune from Brian Raubacher’s old band, “Laidback”, that we sort of Moogafied and made our own. I won’t give too much away but Ron plays some really tasteful solos and there is some gnarly horn layering as well!
Honestly, I can’t say enough good things about Ron. The guy is a total pro and is one of the most humble, down to Earth people I’ve ever met. You can tell just from having a conversation with the guy that he’s the real deal and truly loves playing music. Like I said, I pinch myself every time he plays with us. So hopefully he doesn’t think we’re too bad! Haha. It’s a little intimidating, but we love every minute of it!
5. Since the loss of your keyboard wizard, Brian Dodds, are there any plans of getting a new full-time keyboardist?
CL: Actually, yes. We are currently looking for a full-time keyboard player. We have a few people in mind right now, but just haven’t gotten to properly have auditions with the recording and summer schedule. After our CD release party on August 2nd, we’ll have a few weeks off to try out some new people. If there’s anyone out in Internet land reading this right now, send us an email!
6. If you guys could create your dream album, and collab with any artists that you’d wish, who would we see featured?
CL: You would get a different answer depending on who in the band you ask, but personally I would love to collaborate with Jimmy Herring, Derek Trucks, Warren Haynes, and Jake Cinninger. Maybe even all on 1 track? Haha
7. Obviously the year is far from over, but what have been some of the highlights for Moogatu over the past year?
CL: There have been so many. Aside from the album, I would say it was an honor playing 3 sets at this year’s Mad Tea Party Jam. I can’t even describe how much fun we had at that festival…it was easily one of the best festivals I’ve ever attended, as a musician or a fan. So props to Taco and Elise, we love those guys! A huge moment was when we raised over $4,000 from a crowd-sourcing campaign to help fund the album. It was overwhelming how many donations came in over 45 days (THANK YOU!). Earlier this year, we also supported EOTO and ELM at the NorVa in Norfolk, VA and we haven’t ever played a room that big. It was a ton of fun hanging out with EOTO and their crew. They were very down to earth dudes. Anytime we play in Baltimore at the 8×10 is a blast too. Supporting Dopapod as well. I’m leaving a ton out, it’s been a great year.
8. Where is the album going to be available for the fans?
CL: It will be released August 2, 2014 at Jammin Java. Ron Holloway will be sitting in during our set and Nicky C and the RSB will also be appearing.
9. So, after playing multiple festivals the past couple years and now recording a studio album, what’s next for Moogatu?
CL: More festivals and more studio albums! Haha, we’ve been talking about doing some live [albums] and we also have material for 2 new studio albums! The past year has been spent writing a lot of new material, so I’m already ready to record some new tunes. Expect lots and lots of shows too. Expect to hear a lot from us in the next year.
So there you have it folks! After reading that, what more would you need to get excited for a new album, PLUS an awesome album release party! We’ve had the opportunity to work with Moogatu in the past, and I’ve got to say, these guys have what it takes to make a name for themselves, and not just in our local music scene. I’m definitely super excited to see what else they have in store for us in the future.
Don’t forget, Saturday, August 2nd at Jammin’ Java in Vienna, VA, not one, but TWO albums being released. Ron Holloway will be featured with Moogatu as well, and if you don’t know about the man, well it’s about time to learn. Hope to see all of you out there!