News Summary
After a nine-year hiatus, Jacksonville’s beloved band JJ Grey and Mofro return with their tenth album ‘Olustee’. This self-produced album showcases Grey’s unique blend of blues and R&B, deeply rooted in his North Florida upbringing. Fans are eagerly anticipating their continued journey and commitment to social and environmental issues as they embark on their current tour.
Jacksonville’s Own JJ Grey and Mofro Celebrate Their Return with New Album ‘Olustee’
It’s been nearly a decade since Jacksonville’s favorite jam band, JJ Grey and Mofro, graced us with new tunes, but they are finally back! After a nine-year hiatus, the band has released their highly anticipated tenth album, titled “Olustee,” that brings their unique blend of blues and R&B back to the music scene.
From Humble Beginnings to New Heights
JJ Grey embarked on his musical journey way back in 1998, when he formed Mofro. The band dropped their debut album in 2001 and has since produced an amazing total of nine albums before this latest gem. Now, with “Olustee,” fans can expect something truly special.
What makes this album particularly noteworthy is its self-produced nature; this is the first time JJ Grey has taken the reins behind the production desk, allowing his creativity to flow in a way that we’ve never seen from him before. This hands-on approach has resulted in an album that feels personal and deeply connected to his roots.
A Deep Connection to North Florida
Growing up in Jacksonville, JJ Grey’s connection to North Florida shines bright through his songwriting. With every note, he weaves his love for the area into the fabric of his music. The spirit of his surroundings influences the lyrics, making his songs an authentic reflection of his life experiences.
Meet the Band
The current lineup of Mofro is a talented bunch. Alongside JJ Grey on vocals, guitars, keyboards, and harmonica, fans can enjoy the sounds of Eric Brigmond on keys and trombone, Marcus Parsley and Dennis Marion on trumpets, Craig Barnette on drums, Pete Winders on guitar, Todd Smallie on bass and vocals, and the recently added Katie Dutton providing vocals. Katie joined the band this year and is ready to wow audiences on their current tour.
More Than Just Music—A Lifestyle
JJ Grey and Mofro are known for their extensive touring, performing over 75 shows a year, and swinging through cities all around the globe. Their live performances feature a fantastic mix of genres, integrating a dynamic horn section to elevate their sound to new heights. Whether you’re a fan of blues, R&B, or just good ol’ Southern rock, there’s something for everyone in their melodies.
Moreover, Grey is passionate about environmental advocacy. His strong stance on preserving Florida’s natural landscapes often finds its way into his music, adding an impactful layer to their work.
Exploring ‘Olustee’
The “Olustee” album features 11 powerful tracks, including a fresh take on John Anderson’s classic, “Seminole Wind.” The title track dives into the wildfires of 1998, connecting personal narratives with historical events and providing a little insight into why Grey’s storytelling resonates so deeply with listeners.
A Tour to Remember
JJ Grey and Mofro recently wrapped up a European tour and celebrated their love for local music at the Blackwater Sol Revue festival in St. Augustine, Florida. Their influence in the Jacksonville area is undeniable, with numerous band members having roots in local music programs such as the University of North Florida jazz studies. The vibe is strong, and the nostalgia is palpable!
So, What’s Next?
With “Olustee” now available for fans to enjoy, the band continues their journey, promoting not just their unique sound but also their commitment to social and environmental issues. It’s an exciting time for JJ Grey and Mofro, and no doubt they will continue to steal the spotlight in the years to come. Let’s keep an eye on what this incredible band has in store—it’s clear they’re just getting started!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Jacksonville’s Southern Rock Heritage and Legacy
Additional Resources
- Folio Weekly
- Flamingo Magazine
- Jacksonville.com
- Garden & Gun
- First Coast News
- Wikipedia: JJ Grey
- Google Search: JJ Grey Mofro
- Google Scholar: JJ Grey
- Encyclopedia Britannica: JJ Grey
- Google News: JJ Grey Mofro
