Album Notes

The Ralph Roddenbery Band is a dynamic blend of Americana, roots rock, and a twist of blues. By combining four part harmonies with energizing riffs, captivating lyrics, remarkable stage presence and a driving rhythm section, RRB is able to connect with their audience in a way that makes them feel as if they are having a one on one conversation about life. In a review from the Charleston City Paper, Michael Andrews stated that Ralph Roddenbery has a “undeniable knack for tapping into the emotional undercurrent of his songs, many of which are just as likely to make you laugh as they are to cause moistening of the lids all within the same four minutes.”

The Ralph Roddenbery Band consists of Ralph Roddenbery (lead vocals/rhythm guitar), Ted Norton (lead guitar/vocals), Richie Jones (drums/vocals), Tommy Jones (bass) and Samantha Alessi-Jones (vocals).

Ralph Roddenbery is a unique and impressionable singer/songwriter who has been part of the Athens and Atlanta music scene for many years. He honed his songwriting & performance skills under the tutelage of Bill Berry (R.E.M), John Keane, Randall Bramblett, Davis Causey and Dave Schools (Widespread Panic) while he was living in Athens.

RRB’s lead guitarist, Ted Norton, spent the nineties touring with The Grapes and has a sound that’s been compared to the likes of David Gilmore and Jerry Garcia. Tommy Jones gives RRB its smooth bite with his 5 string precision bass and Richie Jones uses a powerful and dynamic rhythmic approach to his drumming. The voice of Samantha Alessi-Jones is reminiscent of Emmy Lou Harris and Kate Wolf, but she definitely has her own unique sound.

Ralph Roddenbery currently has three releases: Fix Myself, Live at Tree Sound Studios and Let It In. RRB will release the new album “For So Long” in December 2008. The new album was recorded at Bakos Amps Works in Atlanta and mastered by Rodney Mills Masterhouse.

Honest Tune's review of FOR SO LONG by David Higdon (Posted 1/12/09):

"Upbeat, positive, and downright danceable, Ralph Roddenbery’s latest release, For So Long, is a dream come true for a jam fan searching for depth. The message of love permeates the album and emerges in each of the 14 tracks like rays of sunlight appearing over a ridge; this message is a staple to Ralph’s loyal fan base which turns out in festive droves to his live shows. It is also a testament both to Ralph’s songwriting abilities and the grand production work of bandmates Richie Jones and Ted Norton of capturing that amiable vibe in a studio setting.
Formerly of Atlanta jam scene staples The Grapes, guitarist Norton seems to have found his new groove shoes in the subtle accents and bold interplay to Ralph’s thoughtful lyrics. Never overstepping his musical accompaniment in a song, Norton’s guitar is just one element that makes the Ralph Roddenbery Band a true collective effort. Add the dependable rhythm section of Tommy and Richie Jones, and such guest musicians as violinist Zebulon Bowles and John Marsh on the swirling Hammond organ, and the “Band” soon becomes “Family.”

With a vocal delivery comparable to Cat Stevens, should he have ever walked barefoot through kudzu, Roddenbery’s projection on “Get Up Off Your Hands“ gives the listener a musical pat on the back. The number is a strong candidate for album standout, but “Take the Time” very well may take this top honor. Bringing Samantha Alessi-Jones to the forefront for the duet gives the listener a reflective perspective before bringing out another groove laced number to keep those feet busy.

For So Long is out now on Ralph Roddenbery Music."