Richmond’s new instrumental band Balter Choir release their debut single “Leaves Falling” on Oct. 20.
“Leaves Falling” is a pleasant track that establishes the quartet’s jamming style – “Balter Choir strives to provide a chill and relaxed atmosphere of a jazz band while also bringing the fun energy of a party band.” They blend genres like New Zealand Psychedelic Rock with Low Volume Funk and California Soul, which is certainly apparent in “Leaves Falling.”
The listener is taken on a sonic journey as it “portrays the beauty of Richmond in the fall with atmospheric guitars and catchy grooves,” Balter Choir says. Their debut “captures the feeling of strutting through the crisp air while watching the leaves fall and cover Richmond.” As it goes on, the track introduces more experimental sounds while still exuding a familiar fall feeling. The band says it “gives listeners a chance to get up and dance or chat while enjoying the music.”
Balter Choir is a group of four friends who have played together in different projects over the years: John Longbottom (guitar), Kevin Boswell (guitar), Jake Lawrence (bass), and Ryan “Tech” Bowman (drums), who “met through attending/performing shows in Richmond as well as being hired as side musicians for various bands/artists/gigs. Over the years each member continued jamming and supporting one another; whether it would be calling/recommending someone for a gig or simply attending their show.”
Ironically, Balter Choir wrote and recorded “Leaves Falling” at Bowman’s house during one of the hottest summers ever recorded. It is the perfect song to listen to while you take a stroll that you won’t be able to take as comfortably when it gets colder!
“Leaves Falling” is available on all streaming platforms such as Spotify. Follow Balter Choir @BalterChoir everywhere to keep updated with new releases and shows in the area!
Emma Page, a recent Journalism graduate of The George Washington University, possesses a passion for music journalism and storytelling in all its forms. Originally from Baltimore, MD, when she is not writing, she can be found at a local concert or making music of her own.
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Alchemical Records is a Washington, D.C. based music publication. We cover the Washington, D.C., Baltimore and Richmond, VA metro area music scenes, including band interviews, articles about your favorite musicians, new music and concert dates.
