Pocket Chocolate

Biography

Pocket Chocolate is a seven-piece funk, blues, and soul collective originating from New Orleans, Louisiana. Formed in 2019, the band consists of Tucker France (guitar, backing vocals), Gabe France (bass, lead vocals), Connor Zaeringer (drums), and Garret Hickman (saxophone), among other local musicians. Drawing from the rich musical heritage of their hometown, Pocket Chocolate quickly established themselves on the Louisiana live music circuit, performing at venues and festivals throughout the region.

The band's sound is deeply rooted in the traditions of blues rock, modern blues, Cajun, and zydeco, blending these genres with a modern funk and soul sensibility. Their energetic performances and tight musicianship reflect both reverence for classic New Orleans styles and a willingness to experiment with contemporary grooves. Pocket Chocolate released their first studio LP in 2024, featuring tracks like 'Tell Me Twice,' 'Nu Funky Thang,' and 'Waxing Gibbous,' which showcase their dynamic range and commitment to authentic, danceable music.

Though still early in their career, Pocket Chocolate has become known for their vibrant live shows and collaborative spirit, embodying the communal ethos of New Orleans music. Their legacy is being built through grassroots engagement with fans and a dedication to keeping the city's funk, blues, and soul traditions alive for new generations.

Fun Facts

• Pocket Chocolate's members are all born and raised in New Orleans, giving their music an authentic local flavor.
• The band is known for their high-energy live performances, often featuring extended improvisational jams.
• Their debut studio LP was self-produced and funded in part by fan donations through platforms like Venmo.
• Pocket Chocolate frequently engages with fans via social media and encourages audience participation at their shows.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• New Orleans Funk and Blues Community - The band members cite the broader New Orleans funk and blues scene as their primary influence, drawing inspiration from local legends and the city's musical heritage. (Live performances, stylistic elements in debut LP) [2019–present]

Key Collaborators

• Tucker France - Guitarist and backing vocalist, core member of the band (All Pocket Chocolate recordings and live shows) [2019–present]
• Gabe France - Bassist and lead vocalist, core member of the band (All Pocket Chocolate recordings and live shows) [2019–present]
• Connor Zaeringer - Drummer, core member of the band (All Pocket Chocolate recordings and live shows) [2019–present]
• Garret Hickman - Saxophonist, core member of the band (All Pocket Chocolate recordings and live shows) [2019–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Nu Funky Thang (Nu Funky Thang)
2. Whatchu Want (Whatchu Want)
3. Turn It Off - Live (Live From New Orleans EP)
4. Dead In The Water - Live (Live From New Orleans EP)
5. Road Runner - Live (Live From New Orleans EP)
6. You Sure Bout That - Live (Live From New Orleans EP)
7. Waxing Gibbous - Live (Live From New Orleans EP)
8. Tell Me Twice (Tell Me Twice)
9. Nu Funky Thang (Pocket Chocolate)
10. Dead In The Water (Pocket Chocolate)

External Links

• Spotify
• MusicBrainz