Bobby Blunders is a myth: a myth masquerading as an arts and entertainment ensemble. The myth eludes elucidation but can be seen approximately as a dualistic patron saint of both longing and ecstasy.
The word of Bobby Blunders was initially received and set to music by Jesse Carzello, a mainstay of the Long Beach underground music scene, in 2006. The music, similar to the town from which it has sprung, though often misconstrued as provincial, is international in scope. The work simultaneously showcases a deep roots feeling and an unabashedly modern sensibility with regard to sonics and thematic concerns.
For the last decade an oft-evolving ensemble, attempting to perfectly absorb and reflect the whims of the myth, has continued to produce new iterations of Bobby Blunders. The through line between these widely varied expressions of Bobby Blunders is the rhythm-centric, expansive, and ecstatic sound; as well as devotion to the myth.
Michael J Salter, Pastor ‘AJ’ Freeman, Tiffany Semoy Davy, and Jens Clawson have been frequent and treasured collaborators since the band’s inception.
The first full-length album “best neighborhood band” was completed in early 2013, though not released until 2017, followed by “character/witness” on February 2, 2024. The two albums had a couple EPs “downtown ep” and “loving imposter” in between. The latest single (the first from forthcoming EP named simply “extended play”) came out on June 20, 2024.
It is his both Bobby’s deepest desire and most earnest goal, to take the listener all the way up, or at least a little bit higher. He’s aiming for transcendence but will begrudgingly settle for elation. Stand by to keep up with the unfolding mystery of Bobby Blunders.
Photographer: Nick Edwards