Uploaded June 2019 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago

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Our live cover of "Route 104" from Pokemon Ruby and Sapphire, composed by Go Ichinose. This arrangement by Patrick Bartley. Recorded live at Black Cat LES.

Hey, Patrick here! So, how'd you feel about the Nintendo direct? We finally got some more information on the latest Pokemon flagship installment: Sword and Shield! In tribute to Pokemon and all it's done for us in our lives, we decided to go back a few generations to one of the most beautiful and expansive regions in the Pokemon world - Hoenn. Sapphire was actually my first Pokemon game, and what strikes me the most about the 3rd gen is the change in instrumentation they underwent for this specific series of games. Upon discovering Route 104, I knew that someday I'd have to play this song. Something about its soulful B section and R&B shuffle-esque feel to it reminds me of home, and puts me in a good place. Definitely one of my top 5 songs in this game (which is hard, considering all the music in this game is great). Regardless, it's a gem that is seldom talked about, and I wanted to share this with you all. In addition to myself, you get to hear a soulful guitar solo from our man Garrett.

Back on the topic of Sword and Shield, who will be YOUR starter? I usually go for the water starters on the first play-through, but maybe I'll change it up this time around...

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Pocket Band now has a new home in New York City! We're hosting VGM+ (vgm and more) jazz jam sessions at Black Cat LES every 1st Sunday of the month. If you're a musician, bring your axe, and if you're not a musician, bring your DS, Switch, or your good vibes! Everyone is welcome. We want to make this a nice haven for J-culture lovers and music lovers alike. Go to our official Facebook group below for more info!

**NYC Official VGM Jams (Group):
bit.ly/vgmjamnyc

Patrick Bartley (@patbartmusic) - Sax
Benjamin Rosenblum (@benrosenblummusic) - Accordion
Garrett Manley (@garrettmanleyguitar) - Guitar
Wallace Stelzer (@the_first_jazzvenger) - Acoustic Bass
Ben Zweig (@benzwedrums) - Drums


----Download our FREE Demo (or donate and support the band)! -- pocketband.bandcamp.com
----"Time To Play" J-MUSIC Ensemble debut album -- bit.ly/timetoplayalbum

• BOOKING INFO/INQUIRIES:
info@jmusicband.com (ATTN: Patrick)

• Support us on Patreon! - patreon.com/jmusicband

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