Yellowjackets

The quartet's storied career well into their 5th decade marks this 27th album.

- Avzal Israil

In anticipation of their latest release, staff writer Avzal Ismail sat down with Yellowjackets keyboard player and leader Russell Ferrante to chat about the new album.

SJM: Hello Russ, so good to chat with you as always. With you living in Southern California, were you guys directly affected in any way by the recent L.A. wildfires? I must ask how are you and the guys doing dealing with the wildfires.?

Russ: Thanks for your concern. The fires were devastating. Our town was evacuated and without power for several days. We were fortunate not to lose our home but many other musicians and friends we know lost their homes in the fires. The only positive outcome has been the way people have come together to support one another.

SJM: I'm sure the readers would love to know about the new album. How long was the album in the making?

Russ: The writing part is going on all the time but the actual rehearsing and recording happens pretty quickly. I think we rehearsed three days and recorded for three days. Prior to rehearsing, everyone makes a rough demo and chart of their songs and shares them with the band. We all try to do our homework before we begin rehearsing.

SJM: Are there any plans for a new live album from the Yellowjackets?

Russ: No plans at the moment but you never know when the right situation might present itself!