Ross Valory Announces Solo Debut Album, “All Of The Above”
Former Journey bassist Ross Valory has announced his debut solo album is coming this April. All of the Above is described as the first of three “experimental” albums from Valory, who has been crafting his own musical ideas for decades.
“Sometimes spending years jamming on these ideas, the pieces took shape slowly,” a press release explains. “Different ideas were tried and discarded, remodeled and refurbished. The basic concept was to find the heart of the material and expand upon it until Valory could refine and shape the music’s path to his supreme satisfaction. He cast specific musicians to specific parts. The studio became his laboratory and the compositions his experiments.”
Valory plays keyboards, guitar, and multiple basses on the album. He’s given a sneak peek of what’s to come with “Tomland,” an instrumental that revolves around a lyrical bass part. The song features guitarist Miles Schon, drummer Prairie Prince, and keyboardist Eric Levy.
“Valory had the basic parts kicking around since shortly after leaving the Steve Miller Band in 1972, a bluesey set of chords that roll into each other mellifluously, something he had jammed on a lot over the years,” the press release adds. “He pulled it out to fashion a piece that not only recalls the passing of collaborator Tom Size (accomplished engineer known for his work with Mr. Big, Y&T, and Aerosmith), but also offers an affirmation of resolve to move forward, the sunlight of optimism illuminating the process.”
All of the Above will be out in April, though an exact date has not been announced. It will be the first major release from the bassist since he left Journey amid a bitter dispute. However, the press release adds that the different factions in Journey came to terms.
“[He] left Journey in 2020 and the band members worked out their issues in a peaceful mediated settlement. Valory, who spent most of his life as a member of Journey, has no regrets. He counts his blessings at having spent an amazing career with a remarkable group of musicians who succeeded beyond their wildest dreams.”
We’ll keep you updated with more details as they become available.
