biographical info
Shining a modern light on the roots of North American popular music, Patrick
Brealey blends elements of folk, country, cabaret and blues to deliver
lyrically driven songs with a uniquely powerful voice. Patrick’s latest album Mercury
in Songbirds is a collection of songs born in a different era, raised today
and fed by the influence of songwriters like Lyle Lovett, Roy Orbison, Tom
Waits and Willie Nelson. From the early rock and roll swing of “I Don’t Want to
Hear Another Love Song” to the foot-stompin’ romp of “My End of the Deal” to
the crooning heartache of “Something to Do with You”, these songs reminisce of
days gone by while carving a distinctive niche in today’s Canadian folk and
roots scene.
"...a
swinging roots/country artist whose writing smacks of experience well beyond
his years...Looking forward to more from this guy. Grade B+" -
Vancouver Province
It’s been a busy year for Toronto-based Patrick Brealey.
Following the July 14th release of Mercury in Songbirds (Boompa Records)
he toured western Canada, celebrated his release with a party in his second
hometown of Vancouver, and landed a coveted spot at the Mariposa Folk Festival.
The autumn saw Brealey perform at St. Stephen in the Fields church in Toronto,
tour western Canada and hear radio play across the country.
"His new
record - Mercury in Songbirds - is filled to the brim with swagger, tenderness,
a penchant for percussive clank and above all, charisma. It’s those seemingly
simple qualities that will draw comparisons to the greats and make Brealey an
artist to watch." - Herohill
Having shared stages with
Serena Ryder, Justin Rutledge, and Luke Doucet, he is an accomplished pianist,
agile vocalist, and adept guitar picker. His ability to engage an audience is a
signature of his live shows - captivating crowds and moving them to react is a
true testament to his belief that art is nothing without an audience. And
surely the fact that he offers his own homemade pickles and preserves at his
shows doesn’t take away of his charm.
lineup
Patrick Brealey Songwriter
influences
Willie Nelson
Bruce Springsteen
Lyle Lovett
Tom Waits
Neko Case
Elvis Costello