Brian Fitzpatrick-Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar, Lead Vocals
Gene Quintin-Violin
Freddy-Bass Guitar
Scott Minafri-Drums & Percussion
Chris Preston-Bass Guitar, Electric Guitar, Keyboards, Vocals
Influences
The Who, Neil Young, Bob Dylan, The Band, Led Zeppelin, The Beatles, The Kinks, The Rolling Stones, Lynyrd Skynyrd ..
It’s long been said, “Good things come in small packages” – and seldom has there been a finer example of this adage than Brian Fitzpatrick’s latest release, Worse For Wear. Comprised of just 9 songs, the longest of these barely in excess of 3 minutes, this musical “novella”, of sorts, offers a succinct glimpse into personal insights, friendships and a tale or two of love gone wrong. What’s more, each “chapter” proves surprisingly complete, a feat rarely achieved in such short compositions.
One thing the album is by no means “short” on, however, is creativity. Featuring imaginative arrangements and accomplished instrumentation, each song takes the listener on a journey all its own, one that might even be argued to encompass time-travel via the vintage feel of “Laughing Out Loud” – a song that somehow manages to sound fresh and innovative while recalling vivid images of a bygone era. The same could be said for the campfire sing-along “Hey Mary”, and “Jesus Is a Friend of Mine”, a spirited homage to “old-time gospel”. Of course, those familiar with prior Fitzpatrick works will also recognize his uniquely intelligent songwriting – epitomized here on the multi-layered “My Liver’s Killing Me”, as well as his own signature sound on the jaunty lead-off track, the delicate ballad, “Two”, and longtime live show staple, “Faith” – a song first recorded in the mid-nineties, at last here immortalized on disc more than a decade later.
As with his last two albums, Worse For Wear was recorded at legendary Big Blue Meenie studios in Jersey City, NJ and mixed by sound engineer extraordinaire Tim Gilles. An audiophile famed for his pursuit of sonic purity, Gilles and Big Blue have become key collaborators in bringing Fitzpatrick’s visionary sound to fruition. And never has the union proved more successful in capturing a warm and appealing musical experience.
Also joining Fitzpatrick this time around is a band configuration that includes newcomers Scott Minafri on drums/percussion, Fred Machetto on bass guitar and Gene Quintin on violin, plus long time members Matty Z. on mandolin and Ed Fritz ..boards/accordion. Fritz, in fact, has been a major “player” on every Fitzpatrick album, from the introspective 1998 debut, Otherside to its slightlier edgier 2000 follow-up When I Bleed, 2002 breakthrough State of Grace and, most recently, the 2004 standout Further Down The Line.
Prior to emerging as a solo artist, Fitzpatrick spent his early twenties touring Europe and the U.S. with several prominent bands. Although this endeavor proved highly successful – during these years Fitzpatrick played every major European festival and received many prestigious accolades – the experience left him ultimately feeling empty, and a bit confused. One thing he wasn’t confused about was the need to end this portion of his career, despite the fact he had yet to tailor a plan for what might come next. He abruptly changed musical directions in 1997; the rest, as they say, is history.
Thankfully for Fitzpatrick’s now well established fan base that history continues to be written – and re-written – as he challenges both himself and listeners by stretching his artistic borders and exploring uncharted musical waters. “I don’t want to make the same record over again,” Fitzpatrick said during a 2006 appearance. “I’m anxious to make a new album soon, but it has to be something I’ve never done before.” That said, this record indeed represents something “different” as an entry in the Fitzpatrick catalog. Yet, the fact remains it’s likewise evidence this artist has stayed ever the same: a fine singer/songwriter who consistently releases inventive and listener-friendly works. And, that’s a quality no one – and everyone – is about to characterize as, indeed…Worse for Wear.
Brian Fitzpatrick and the Band of Brothers-My Liver's Killing Me ..
Hi, Just want to let you know that a bunch of New Orleans style jazz and funk acts are coming to Sullivan Hall in the next few weeks! Ticket links and details are below, or check out www.sullivanhallnyc.com for more information.
Come out and celebrate the summer in New York, NOLA style!
Thank you for being our friend and listening to our music!
Be sure to check back often for our latest news, songs, and tour dates! Our new album is coming out THIS Summer!! To find our first two albums, "Couch Sessions LIVE" and "Ukulily," visit http://cdbaby.com/cd/trippinglily
Great to have you sitting in with us yesterday! listened to the new cd and loved it! we absolutely have to do a show with you asap. we're working on a new cd and have mixed some live recordings which hopefully we'll be releasing soon. let us know when we can book some shows..
You ROCK! Thanks for being a friend and for all your hard work. Hope to see you at the 2nd annual Utica Music and Arts Fest. Over 200 performers in over 15 venues for 3 DAYS! Including a kick-off party on the Adirondack Scenic Railroad, Utica Tattoo Fest and the Utica Greens Fest!
Visit our site for more info and performer submissions. Have a great day!
Bands::: Interested in performing at this years event?? Click the link! And while you’re there please take a moment to sign up for our mailers to stay informed.
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