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There’s something very special about making music with a good friend, someone you’ve clocked in a lot of time with.   There’s a trust that’s established that frees you up to just do what you do, to create with no need to explain yourself, or worry if the other person gets it or not.   There’s a camaraderie that’s established where it’s been proven you have each other’s back.  You can push each other to do better work because of the history you have and the friendship you’ve built.   These are my favorite records to make, and that’s what I have with Jayson Belt.

We’ve performed, written, and recorded music together for years now.   The culmination of this time is an ease and freedom in working together.  Rarely does anything need to be explained or talked through.  We just start writing, or playing, or tracking. It’s easy.

“Poor Penmanship” – Jayson’s debut solo album, is a reflection of that relationship.   It’s a record that’s been in the works for a long time.  It’s been put on the back burner a few times as life has brought different twists and turns – career changes, kids, moves, etc.   But, it’s finally done and I think it’s a better record because of the wait.

A couple of thoughts about Jayson Belt…
Jayson is a power house of a vocalist, which is demonstrated on this record at times.  But, what also is displayed are the more subtle textures of his vocal which deliver some of my favorite moments, such as “Adriatic”.
He is one of the most gifted lyricists I know.  He can bring so much sarcasm and bite in a turn of phrase that you can’t help but laugh.  He can emote in a subtle way without hitting you over the head.  I’ve always marveled at how quickly he can pen a lyric to evoke just the right feeling.

Because of the span of time that this record was written and recorded over, we were a little concerned about how it would all fit together.   But, listening to it now, it makes perfect sense to me.  It reflects that span of time in it’s diversity and various influences, which I think brings interest to the record as a whole.  It’s certainly a record I’m proud of from the songs to the performances, to its production and mixes. Making music with friends is one of things that I value most in this life and this record is certainly an example and a tribute to that.

-Bobby Hartry

‘Poor Penmanship’ Release Date: February 10, 2015
iTunes Pre-Release Available now!

Album Release Show at The Mint
Sunday, Feb 8: 7pm
with fielding, Daena Jay & Ryan Webster
21+ | $5 pre-sale | $10 at the door
Buy Tickets Here