Many fans were surprised to hear that Ryan Montbleau sat in with Galactic aboard Jam Cruise few days ago for a take on Paul Simon’s “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover.” As it turns out, the New England songwriter has been strengthening his New Orleans ties for a few months. After penning song lyrics for Trombone Shorty, Montbleau decided to make an R & B record in New Orleans after JazzFest last year. In order to give the forthcoming release a New Orleans vibe, he also recruited keyboardist Ivan Neville, Meters bassist George Porter Jr., drummer Simon Lott and guitarist Anders Osborne for the sessions. The album is tentatively slated for release this spring.