Rock singer-songwriter Graham Brown scores points for his fascination with composing songs.
“I have a passion for writing songs. I don’t have a choice. I love to play music. I’m a song junkie and I can’t see any reason for stopping. When I plug in a guitar, I’m 12 years old again, ” said the Paul Kane High alumnus.
The Glasgow-born, St. Albert-raised musician now living in Vancouver recently released Let Me In, his 12th studio album. True to his style, the CD is a mix of rock ‘n’ roll, country, roots and everything in between.
Wearing his signature pork pie hat, Brown is organizing a local release at Shakers Roadhouse on Saturday, Oct. 20.
Let Me In debuted July 18 with the help of Juno Award-winning engineer Dave Meszaros from The Warehouse Studio (Bryan Adams) and BCCMA Producer & Recording Engineer of the year, Bill Buckingham (Palace Studios).
“We laughed – we soared – we crashed – we roared – got up and did it again,” said Brown, a road warrior with more than 30 years experience performing live.
The 13-track is a collection of reflections revolving around today’s society.
“I always struggle coming up with a title. I try not to use a song for a title. But Let Me In could be used as a metaphor for the way we communicate,” he noted.
Puzzled by a series of unstable world situations and events happening south of the 49th parallel, Brown questions many things.
“I’ve even written the Donnie Trump Waltz song. It’s not on the album, but I may play it at the concert.”
Many of his new album songs showcase the working man’s viewpoint. For instance, I Don’t Mind speaks to his current headspace.
“Every time I hear it, it makes me feel good. It’s a fun reflection on working hard and paying your dues. It’s about saying, ‘Don’t waste my time. I still have so much to do.’”
Hole in My Heart is a tribute to a friend who passed away, while Treetop Slim & Jungle Jim is a fun tune about a couple of guys from Brown’s youth who were in the business of buying and selling the illicit.
Another song, Gasoline, is a cool expression of the Graham Brown Band’s musical and personal chemistry.
“We really nailed that song. The vibe was good. We’ve been doing it for so long, just raising an eyebrow or a hand gesture means something that everyone understands.”
Supporting him is Mark Gruft (drums), John Werner (bass) and Rob Blackburn (keys-guitar).
“I want people to come enjoy themselves at the show, see a real good band, be good to each other, and finally, ‘Be yourself. Everyone else is taken.’”
Showtime is 9 p.m. Cover is $10.
