Little Feat releases new album with Molly Tuttle and Robert Hunter
Little Feat, a renowned rock band, recently released a new album titled “Strike Up The Band,” marking their first studio work since the additions of Scott Sharrard and Tony Leone to the group. This album, launched through Hot Tomato Records on May 11, follows their previous record, “Sam’s Place,” which earned a GRAMMY nomination. Collaborating with bluegrass sensation Molly Tuttle and former Grateful Dead songwriter Robert Hunter, the band crafted 13 original tracks for this latest release.
Bill Payne, one of the co-founders of Little Feat, shared insights into the creative process, stating that when working with Robert Hunter, the lyrics were often the starting point. The band’s signature sound, blending gritty New Orleans rhythms, country influences, and jazzy elements, has been captivating fans since their inception in 1969, and this album promises to enchant new listeners as well. A standout track, “4 Days of Heaven, 3 Days of Work,” emerged from a four-day writing session in New York, showcasing the band’s collaborative spirit and musical ingenuity.
“Bluegrass Pines,” a feature track from the album, shines a spotlight on Molly Tuttle’s exceptional guitar skills, supported by vocal talents from Larry Campbell and Teresa Williams. Co-written by Robert Hunter, this song, along with hits like “Too High to Cut My Hair,” “Dixie Chicken,” and “Fat Man in the Bathtub,” exemplifies the band’s eclectic and distinctive style. Little Feat’s current lineup includes Bill Payne on keys, Fred Tackett on guitar, Kenny Gradney on bass, Sam Clayton on drums, with Scott Sharrard on lead guitar and Tony Leone on drums since 2019.
Embarking on a tour starting from Montclair, NJ on May 9, Little Feat will culminate their journey with a three-day music festival in Woodstock from August 30 to September 1, where they will also record their next live album. With a discography boasting 16 studio albums, the band continues to make significant contributions to the music scene. Fans can stay updated on upcoming shows and events by visiting the band’s official website.
Little Feat’s enduring legacy and innovative collaborations showcase their commitment to pushing musical boundaries while remaining true to their roots. As they continue to evolve and experiment with their sound, fans can expect more groundbreaking music and unforgettable live performances from this iconic rock band.