Jimmy LaValle’s  been doing this a while. Since starting The Album Leaf in 1998, the “band” has released four records, each time tweaking their ambient indie sound.

After getting his first record deal, LaValle used the advance to purchase all he needed to set up his own home recording studio.  An Off White Room, a 4-song EP, was named after his recording studio. He has continued to mix and produce his own songs since.

LaValle’s DIY attitude towards his music has produced some intriguing, theatrical melodies. In 2006, Into the Blue Again was testimony to his instrumental ability as he worked on the album mainly by himself.

According to The Album Leaf’s official website, their upcoming album, A Chorus of Storytellers takes a more refined approach than previous albums and “reflects its difficult journey to creation.”  LaValle directed his energies to vocals after not meeting his mixing deadline. Also, he chose to record his entire band live—something they’d never done before. LaValle remains the (multi) instrumentalist for this album, and even though it’s  more produced than earlier ones, the band’s still recognizable ( and improved). A Chorus of Storytellers is due out next month on Sub Pop Records.

Ashley Thompson

Currently listening to “Pants on the Ground” by General Larry Platt