Leadbetter Band ‘Cake’ Serves Up a Fresh Slice of Pacific Northwest Rock
From the heart of the Pacific Northwest comes Leadbetter Band, a powerhouse trio that’s steadily rising with their blend of rock, blues, and jam-band influences. Formed in 2017, the band is fronted by the charismatic Eric Leadbetter (guitar, vocals) and anchored by Aaron Moore (bass, vocals) and Kaleb Kelleher (drums, backing vocals). Their latest album Cake, released in 2023, cements their place as a standout act in the region, known for their dynamic live performances and original sound.
If you’ve been lucky enough to catch Leadbetter Band live, you already know what sets them apart—there’s an energy, a palpable connection between the members that translates directly to the audience. They’ve honed this connection through relentless gigging, from small clubs in Oregon to sharing stages with rock legends like ZZ Top, Gov’t Mule, and Blues Traveler. There’s a reason why fans keep coming back for more: Leadbetter Band doesn’t just play music—they live it.
When the band dropped their self-titled debut album in 2019, it was clear they had something special. The lineup at the time featured Patrick Pearsall on bass and Dylan Bernal on drums, forming a rhythm section that perfectly complemented Leadbetter’s guitar-driven songwriting. But as all bands evolve, so did Leadbetter Band, and when Moore and Kelleher joined in 2021, it marked the beginning of a new era for the group. Their second album, Howl, was a testament to the chemistry this trio could create, especially after a pandemic pause that left them itching to get back to work.
Fast forward to 2023, and Cake hits with a matured sound that blends their vintage rock influences with fresh, modern twists. There’s no denying the production magic of Joe Reineke, who helmed the album’s recording at Temple of the Trees studio in Seattle. Reineke’s touch gave the band’s raw energy a polished edge, without ever losing the authenticity that makes their music resonate.
Tracks like “Grand Misconception” bring the high-energy, riff-heavy rock that fans crave, while “Challenge Me” shows off their ability to slow it down and dive deep into blues territory. It’s this versatility that makes Cake such a compelling listen—you’re never quite sure where the band is going to take you next, but you’re eager to follow.
And then there’s the dual lead vocal dynamic. Not every band can pull it off, but Eric Leadbetter and Aaron Moore make it look effortless. Their voices weave in and out of harmony, creating a rich texture that adds depth to the songs. It’s a unique element that sets them apart from many of their contemporaries and opens up a range of creative possibilities. Just wait until you hear their upcoming track “Reckless Abandon” in 2025, where they trade vocals like seasoned pros in a thrilling game of lyrical ping pong.
Of course, no review of Leadbetter Band would be complete without mentioning their live shows. Whether they’re rocking out at regional festivals like Cascade Equinox and Wieser River or opening for ZZ Top at the Britt Amphitheater, this band knows how to bring the house down. Their stage presence is electric, their musicianship tight, and their passion infectious. It’s no surprise that their live performances have become legendary in the Pacific Northwest.
As ‘Cake‘ continues to gain traction, Leadbetter Band is gearing up for an even bigger 2024. With a packed touring schedule and plans for a fourth studio album at Bluejay Studios in Jacksonville, Oregon, they’re showing no signs of slowing down. What’s clear is that they’ve built a solid foundation—a grassroots, self-managed hustle that’s taking them from regional favorites to a band with national potential.
Leadbetter Band isn’t just a flash in the pan. They’ve got the chops, the drive, and the creativity to keep evolving, and Cake is the latest proof of that. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering them for the first time, this album delivers exactly what you need: solid, soulful rock that feels both familiar and excitingly fresh.
