Today we’d like to introduce you to Matthew Willey.
Hi Matthew, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
As with most musical groups, each member has their own previous experience with various musical acts over the years. Kobalt 27 came together in the fall of 2020 as part of a natural progression from one project into the next. Three Kobalt members played with another Central Florida band for 5 years before branching out with a new vocalist and style.
Kobalt 27 is a 4-piece rock/alt-rock alliance out of Orlando, FL. The sound is drawn from classic rock influences from the ’70s to the ’90s, such as Rush, Led Zeppelin, Pearl Jam, Rage Against the Machine, Foo Fighters, and Alice in Chains. Highlighted by lead vocalist, J. Baker, Kobalt 27 breathes power and grace, combining a mix of classic 90’s alternative rock with popular modern alternative rock tunes. Poignant harmonies, an unyielding rhythm section, and a unique, energetic setlist have made Kobalt 27 a Central Florida’s premiere 90’s and alternative rock cover band.
James (aka “JB” and/or “King James”) joined Kobalt27 in late 2020. He’s rocked Orlando for almost decade as a singer and bassist after moving here from Los Angeles. In LA he performed in several cover and original bands; playing world-famous venues like the Whiskey-a-Go-Go, Viper Room, House of Blues Sunset, and the El Rey Theater, among others. He has opened for national acts like the B-52s, Smithereens, Steel Panther, Rooney, Powder, and the Drills and has recorded professionally at famous Sunset Sound studios in Hollywood. JB has also toured the west coast, as well as playing the Majestic Theater in San Antonio and Arlene’s Grocery in NYC. Prior to his LA days, James lived and played gigs in Chicago and Upstate NY.
Matt Willey has played lead and rhythm guitar across Florida for the past 20 years. He has worked with cover and original bands; playing notable venues including Steven C O’Connell Center in Gainesville and Orpheum in Tampa. He has shared the stage with national recording artists including Buck Cherry, Fixer, and Boyce Avenue. Willey integrates driving and aggressive guitar work in both his cover and original recordings. The latest original music can be found here: www.denythefall.com. Willey has gigged in Alabama with fellow bandmate, John, for 4 years before returning to Orlando in 2013. Another original project that Matt is part of https://aliveinstonemusic.com/
John Masingill’s musical versatility is only equaled by his diverse music experience. He has performed in several covers and original bands spanning from country to hard rock and hip hop. He has performed at the World-Famous Oasis Bar in Birmingham and Iron Horse Saloon, Ormand Beach, and has shared the stage with Uncle Kracker. He is a fixture on bass, keyboards, and rhythm guitars. He sings backing and leads vocals . . . and he can rap. Yes, you read that correctly.
Chris Muller has been a part of the Orlando Music Scene for the past 28 years. His original projects have received national attention. He has worked with Andy VanDette, mastering engineer for Rush and Bowie, and was the drummer for Robert Hannon, who went on to win a Grammy for engineering Outkast’s “Hey Ya”. He has performed across the South East, with notable appearances at Hard Rock Live. Chris is a true student of percussion. Despite his experience, he continues to hone his craft with Master Classes from experts across the globe.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
From a pure musical perspective, Kobalt 27’s road has been very smooth. The band was built with members that have similar musical tastes, abilities, and visions for what we want to do and become. The major challenge has been balancing the demands of home/professional life with the ever-present drive to Rock n’ Roll! But who doesn’t experience that? Also, there was this little pandemic . .
I suppose that is what is truly inspiring. Despite the pandemic setback; despite the demands of professional jobs and families; bands and musical acts across Central Florida are still getting their rock on. This is a testament to the power of live music and why we are so excited to be a part of the narrative. We are grateful to all musicians, the audience, and venues that make this possible.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Kobalt 27 is a 90’s/alternative rock cover band. In a sea of 70′ and 80’s cover bands in Central Florida, we wanted to be different. Of course, it helps that we actually love the 90s! Our setlist includes 90’s classics such as Pearl Jam, Rage Against the Machine, Alice in Chains, Gin Blossoms, and REM, along with more modern alternative rock such as The Killers, Shinedown, Foo Fighters, and Fall Out Boy.
The ’90s are back. Girls are wearing Nirvanna shirts. Guys are growing mullets. It is our time.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
It thinks that answer is very personal and different for each band member, based on their upbringing and life experience.
As a band, the overarching goal is to play good music with some good friends, in front a good crowd. We want to feel like we got the front row seats to see a wild and crazy audience! We want to have a beer after a show and say, “man . . . that kicked ass.” That would be success.
Sounds simple huh?!?
Contact Info:
- Email: k27band@gmail.com
- Website: www.k27band.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kobalt27_band
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/k27band
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