These days it seems like everyone in the Detroit music scene has forgotten about Motown. Everyone that is, except Patrick Thomas. Raised on Detroit's soulful classics and deep pocket grooves, Thomas set out in 2002 to explore the sounds that made his hometown famous. These influences combined with those of his college years (Radiohead, Jeff Buckley and David Gray) came together in the studio to forge the sound of 2003's Ghost Town Radio.
Critical acclaim and local recognition garnered The Patrick Thomas Theory a showcase at South By Southwest in Austin, Texas. The trouble was that there was no "Theory" to take on the road as the album's backing band was comprised of studio musicians. Patrick quickly assembled a group of talented players from across the country and a steady life of touring began.
"I learned so much about myself as a person and as a songwriter in my years touring with the Theory. And in such a short time, I feel like we accomplished a great deal." The list of accolades is long indeed. With opening slots for the Black Crowes and North Mississippi All Stars, promoters started calling and soon the band was scheduled alongside Lifehouse, Better Than Ezra and legends like Journey. Thomas has also played with contemporaries like Will Hoge, Citizen Cope, State Radio and many more. Along the way Detroit Music Awards recognized Patrick with nominations for his vocals and songwriting and the band also picked up local awards for best live performance.
Ghost Town Radio stands as a testament to the songwriting and vision of an emerging artist. Now, with hundreds of broken strings, thousands of dancing feet, and shattered van windshields in his recent past, Patrick Thomas is opening a new chapter. In late 2005 Patrick embarked on his first solo college tour. The success of this tour and a new focus on the writing styles of Bob Dylan and Paul Simon went hand and hand with a move to New York City. New York has brought a new life to Thomas and a new energy to his music. Fall of 2006 will bring with it a solo album recorded in the woods of Vermont and another national tour. While Patrick Thomas is evolving constantly as a songwriter, his honest lyrics, gift for melody and soulful voice will not disappoint old and new fans alike.
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