What happens when a member of the Yellowjackets brings in a new tune?
BM: We all write for the group’s recording projects based on discussions we’ve had regarding directions we’re taking — which is never etched in stone. It may change as the music comes together. We submit pieces in demo form, everyone listens and there’s a little vote that goes on. When a piece is chosen, we write out some parts and play through it. Things can change dramatically during every step of this process. A funk tune can become a swing tune. You just never know what’s going to happen. I call it “Jacketization”! [laughing] Everyone has strong opinions on where the music can go, and I just love the process. Even when I don’t agree with what somebody has to say, I’m excited about the outcome once everybody has put in their two cents. It’s very cool. You’ve written a tune, but once everyone in the band has gotten done with it, it sounds like the Yellowjackets. JJ: Since the group is based on the West Coast and you reside on the East Coast, is there or was there any adjustment nece
