Each month in 2021, we will be featuring a member of the worldwide Gretsch community as our spotlight “featured player” of the month!

The featured drummer for February is Robby Albrecht. . .

Robby Albrecht studied at the McNally-Smith College of Music and the University of Minnesota under Gordy Knudtson (Steve Miller Band), Marv Dahlgren, and Elliot Fine (authors of Four Way Coordination).  Emerging on the Twin Cities music scene with Pendulum Records’ Two Minute Warning, they released their debut album when Robby was 19.  TMW changed their sound and name to The Hatfields, put out another record and toured, opening for acts like Shawn Colvin and The Rebrandts.  He went on to form The Sea, recording an album with Grammy-nominated producer Rob Genadek. The Sea received critical acclaim and funkified fans throughout the country.  While raising his two musician sons, Robby wrote and produced music for video games. As the boys went off on their own, the drums called again.  Forming the trio Celestial Navigation with his violinist fiancée, Robby needed something more conducive to an acoustic setting.

We asked Robby . . .

How old were you when you knew you were interested in becoming a musician?
I started playing drums at age nine, and I participated in school and local rock bands through high school.

Why did you choose Gretsch and what Gretsch gear do you currently use?
I started using a Catalina club, but being so impressed with the quality for money, I sprung for a USA Custom 50th Anniversary kit in short time. Oh that sound!

Which musicians were the biggest influence on you and why?
Drummers like Tony Williams, Vinnie Colaiuta, and Charlie Watts.  Another reason I looked for a Gretsch kit.

How did you adjust and stay musical during the COVID-19 pandemic?
To adjust to the Covid pandemic, the band got a green screen and has been making videos at home. We finished an album during the early part of the pandemic. It’s time to get it out!

You could be featured in 2021 just like Robby.  Click to find out how!