Brent & Co.

Up and coming independent group Brent & Co recently released its second EP. The six-track, self-titled recording is one more of the best of this year’s crop of new EPs. It is a collection of songs that will impress any fans of Dave Matthew Band, John Mayer, and to a slightly lesser degree Jason Mraz. That is at least in regards to the record’s overall musical content. The lyrical content displayed in each of the EP’s songs will impress not just fans of the noted acts but listeners in general. The combination of both elements throughout the record’s twenty-two minute run time makes it a collection that paints a bright picture for Bren & Co.’s future.

Brent & Co.’s new self-titled EP is only the group’s second overall recording. But in listening to each of its six tracks, it shows that it is a rare diamond in the rough of the independent music scene. That is because it is one of those rare recordings that serves the argument that independent acts (both those signed to independent labels and those that are currently unsigned) can and at times do hold their own against their more well-known counterparts. In the case of Brent & Co, the band’s new self-titled EP it holds its own quite well. While the songs featured on this disc exhibit obvious influences from the likes of Dave Matthews Band, John Mayer, and Jason Mraz the songs themselves are just as clearly original both in terms of their lyrical and musical content. That is most obvious late in the record’s run in the form of ‘Collected.’ The Dave Matthews Band influence is clear in regards to its musical content considering drummer Dominic Fragman’s funk-infused beats and saxophonist Derrick Michaels’ work on his instrument. Front man and namesake member Brent Peterson adds to that influence with his work on acoustic guitar and even his vocal delivery style. Even with its musical similarity to Dave Matthews Band here the band members make a clearly concerted effort to not let themselves just be a cookie cutter to the aforementioned band. Rather they have taken that sound and used it for an original song that holds its own quite well against the likes of DMB and others of that ilk. In regards to the song’s lyrical content, it is just as enjoyable. Peterson sings in the song’s lead verse, “Legs tremble/Fingers twist/Eyes lookin’ into mine/As we kiss the last taste better than the last time…never mentioned the risk of falling in love/Well still I see you as you’re walking out that door…I just keep asking myself why is it this way anyway.” He goes on to sing in the song’s second verse, “So long running this obsession of mine/I tried to quit but I turn around every time/My friends say I’m crazy/But I know in my mind/Things will work out…just give it a little time.” Here Peterson comes across as singing from the vantage point of a man that is head over heels for a certain woman. His friends are telling him not to pursue her and that she’s nothing but trouble. And he knows deep down that it’s a risk. But she’s so intoxicating that he just can’t fight it. What man hasn’t been there? Exactly. The upbeat vibes of the song’s musical content complement these lines quite well. The two come together to paint a rich picture to which so many can relate. That ability of Brent & Co. to relate to its audiences so well and entertain them just as much shows clearly at least in the form of ‘Collected’ why this band’s new EP deserves more than just one listen. It isn’t the only of the record’s high points either. ‘Why Oh Why,’ the record’s third track is another example of what makes this independently released EP so surprisingly enjoyable.

‘Collected’ is in its own right a clear example of what makes Brent & Co.’s new self-titled EP a diamond in the rough. It is hardly the only way in which the record shows itself to be so surprising. ‘Why Oh Why,’ the EP’s third track is yet another example of what makes this collection of songs stand out. What’s really interesting here is that where ‘Collected’ boasted something of a Dave Matthews Band sound, ‘Why Oh Why’ boasts something more along the lines of a country/bluegrass sound complete with fiddle played by Patrick McAvinue. Even more interesting (and this is just the opinion of this critic), is that in his delivery here, Peterson actually sounds somewhat like Counting Crows front man Adam Duritz. It is an interesting combination. But it works. And it does so, again, quite surprisingly. That’s just one part of what makes the song work so well. The song’s lyrical content deserves just as much attention. The song’s lyrical content presents a song that is yet another love song. Yet it isn’t one of those standard schmaltzy, over-the-top pieces that are so common among the country/bluegrass world or that of any other musical genre. Rather, it is a touching, heartfelt piece that is sure to put a smile on any loving couple’s faces. Peterson sings from the vantage point of a man trying to convince a woman just how much she means to him. The woman in question obviously has some self-esteem issues as she asks in the song’s chorus, “Why oh why do you waste your time?” She is asking the man why does he waste his time with her. His answer: “You waste your time on me.” He goes on in response to ask her, “Why oh why/Are you so blind to see/You’re beautiful.” Anyone not moved by this is simply not human. From here the man continues to gently convince the unnamed woman of his affection for her in the remaining verses, singing to her over and over again in the final lines that she is so beautiful. The gentility in Peterson’s voice as he sings alongside his choice of words makes this song, at least in terms of its lyrical content, a truly touching and impressive love song. That lyrical content set against the song’s equally moving musical content makes it the kind of song that one might expect to hear on the soundtrack of any major name romantic movie. Considering that it is coming from a largely unknown band, that speaks volumes of the song. It also speaks volumes about the band members’ talents. It still is not the last example of just how surprising Brent & Co.’s new EP proves to be. ‘A Little Bit Closer’ is one more example of that surprise.

‘Collected’ and ‘A Little Bit Closer’ are both clear examples of what makes Brent & Co.’s new self-titled EP a surprisingly enjoyable collection of songs. While both songs are enjoyable additions to the EP in their own right, they are hardly the disc’s only high points. ‘A Little Bit Closer,’ which opens the record, is one more high point that deserves to be noted. In regards to its musical content ‘A Little Bit Closer’ instantly conjures thoughts of John Mayer and Jack Johnson (if one can imagine the two acts’ sounds combined into one). Peterson is just as impressive here both in regards to his vocal delivery as to his talents on the guitar. One can almost see him on stage holding his guitar close as he sings a la Dave Matthews, but singing with the style of Johnson and Mayer. Dominic Fragman shows yet again his own talents behind the drum kit as he keeps time. There is a certain free-flowing, bouncy energy exuded in his performance here. It’s almost as if he is just jamming out versus actually playing a fully constructed section of the song. His performance just feels and sounds that natural. The harmonies generated by bassist Joseph Martone add even more depth to the song, making for even more enjoyment. Add in the song’s equally interesting lyrical content and audiences get quite the interesting composition. In regards to the song’s lyrical content, the song explains itself especially through its title. Peterson is singing about a man wanting to get closer to his woman. Though, since he doesn’t directly note that the singer is male, it could just as easily be a woman. So it really goes both ways. From sitting together on the couch, on the beach, or other situations, the song’s subject asks his/her love interest how he/she would react if the other got closer, got bolder and made that move to show that affection for the other. The positive energy in the song’s musical content wonderfully compliments this question and the very anticipation of making that move expressed by Peterson’s subject throughout the song. It is one of those songs that will help set the mood for any brand new couple that is beginning to move past that very first stage of getting to know one another. All of this in mind, ‘A Little Bit Closer’ proves in the end to be a solid introduction for Brent & Co. on its new EP. It also proves the song to be one more of the record’s highest points. Together with ‘Why Oh Why’ and ‘Collected,’ all three songs clearly and solidly show why this up and coming independent act is destined for greatness given the right support. Brent & Co. is available now. It can be downloaded direct via Amazon at http://www.amazon.com/Brent-Co/dp/B017E3O3TY/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1447777701&sr=1-1&keywords=Brent+%26+Co.

Brent & Co.’s new self-titled EP is one of the best of this year’s crop of new EPs. That is because of its originality and ability to entertain audiences in whole. Over the course of its twenty-minute plus run time, Brent & Co. keeps audiences engaged and entertained with songs that musically display the influence of the band’s more well-known counterparts, yet still maintain their own identity from beginning to end. The record’s lyrical content is just as certain to keep listeners engaged and entertained. That is because while the songs are lyrically centered on relationships, not one of the songs ever goes over the top in its lyrical content. They never get schmaltzy. This is exhibited in all three of the songs noted here. It is also exhibited just as much in the EP’s remaining trio of tracks. Regardless of which song(s) one chooses, it can be said of the record in whole that it is a diamond in the rough that every listener will be glad to discover. More information on More information on Brent & Co. is available online now along with all of the band’s latest news at:



Website: http://www.brentandco.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/brentandco

Twitter: http://twitter.com/brentandco - Phil's Picks

The word these days is that you make your money on the road. You can tell that this bunch of a bunch of road warriors that want to keep the floor filled and the beer taps flowing. Nu rock for the American night, they aren't afraid to do some genre splicing and mash upping to keep their sound live and lively. Recent college grad with no reason to need to be home before midnight? Here's a dandy soundtrack for the current story of your life. - Mid West Record Review

Rising up out of Washington D.C, the new Brent & Co. self-titled EP packages their latest tracks that are full of dynamic harmonies while the soulful repertoire is easily and seamlessly incorporated utilizing a multitude of genres such as country, folk, and rock steady reggae.

listening to each and every one of those tunes was extremely satisfying
Exceedingly comforting strings twang from guitarist/vocalist Brent Peterson on “Don’t Even” like he’s exploring the outer boundaries of each genre as the recording tape rolls. Overall, the album creates a warm inviting mood. While the EP only contained six tracks, listening to each and every one of those tunes was extremely satisfying.

It should surprise no one that Brent & Co. sounds wonderful and presents one of the best examples of modern progressive music. The tracks are very much grounded, soothing, and unpredictable, but in a good way. The heart of these songs is seemingly tied to the guitar and horns, which gives the tracks an almost symphonic tone. The songs seem written specifically with live performance in mind, although they still translate well on record. - TopShelfReggae.com

"With our latest EP, we set out with the ambition to capture our live sound - proudly developed over hundreds of shows and thousands of miles in a station wagon. That's no easy feat once you remove the audience and surround yourself with microphones. Thankfully, the recording speaks for itself and we dedicate it to our listeners who through their physical presence and random acts of kindness have made the journey possible. Independent music is alive and well today thanks to them!" - Huffington Post

D.C. has a new sound making waves, creating early momentum with the 4-piece reggae inspired rock, country, and pop group known as Brent & Co.. Performing over 250 shows a year, this is a sound crafted on the road and the Oct. 30th release of their new self-titled EP will reflect that as we give away their new song “Breakin’ Up” on our homepage for FREE.

Brent & CO. will be releasing a follow up to their 2012 Now How We Dream EP with the release of their self-titled EP on October 30th, 2015. Of the 6 tracks on this eclectic release, Brent & Co. has agreed to allow The Pier to give away “Breakin’ Up”, which is said to be a dedication to the three-chord reggae sould of the legendary Gregory Isaacs.

Here’s what the group shared with The Pier about the song “Breakin’ Up”:
“Relationships – be they platonic, romantic or otherwise – are the core of the human experience. We’re social animals. Despite this we’re seemingly hardwired with an ability to make these vital links complicated. I’ve always admired the songwriters who take these knotty situations and distill a larger truth from them – Gregory Isaacs was unrivaled in this ability clarify the human condition all while only using three chords. “Breakin’ Up” is our love letter to him and this tradition of story telling!”

The Brent & Co. EP has a little something for everybody; deep and meaningful love songs, tributes to some of their favorite musicians and fine musicianship throughout. Ranging from acoustic rock and folksy Americana to skanking rock steady reggae and horn heavy funk: with a passion for life and music tying it all together. Brent & Co. are often compared to artists such as Dave Matthews Band, Ray LaMontagne, and Michael Franti. This EP has a broad appeal to new and old fans alike and listeners of all ages and backgrounds. - ThePier.org

Brent Peterson has made a living out of being on the road as a touring musician, but that hasn't diminished the joy he feels upon returning to his hometown to share his music.
Peterson will perform with his band Brent & Co. at Mojo's Music Bar this evening in what is being dubbed a "hometown CD release show"
Beginning at 1-pm with opening act Uncle Ben's Remedy, a local country and Americana group, tonight's show will mark the first time Brent & Co. have performed in an original setting in the Jamestown area since 2012 - when the band held a release party for its first EP release at Labyrinth Press Company. The band has also performed at Southern Tier Brewing Company's annual Public Day events over the past few years.
Peterson said, despite the fact that he is the only member of the group to call Jamestown home, the entire band looks forward to it's Western New York visits.
"We're incredibly excited to be returning to Jamestown, which has shown me and the band an unrivaled level of support throughout the years," Peterson said. "The band loves coming back because people from Upstate New York are really kind and generous, and every time we've been up here to play we have a wonderful time. Plus, you can't beat the fall foliage at this time of year."
The band will be selling copies of its second release at tonight's show, a self-titled EP that contains five originals and a cover of Al Green's "Let's Stay Together."
Peterson's love for music began at a young age, when he initially learned to play cello from local music teacher Nina Karbacka, and later when he began taking guitar lessons at Germain and Papalardo. A 2003 graduate of Southwestern High School, he initially moved to Chicago to pursue a career in music before relocating to Washington, DC upon landing a fulltime job in renewable energy finance.
In 2011, he quit his government job to pursue a fulltime music career. He said he performs an average of 250 solo acoustic and full band shows per year. His current tour schedule through November includes performances throughout New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Michigan, Connecticut and Washington, DC. - Jamestown Post-Journal

Tuesday

Brent & Co.

This Washington-centric act fronted by singer-songwriter Brent Peterson is exactly the kind of happy-go-lucky acoustic rock that would make a great fit at Hill Country. So grab some barbecue and a cold brew and have a listen to this local artist.
- The Washington Post

Brent & Co - the appealing, up-and-coming, folk-rock-country-pop outfit from Washington, DC - are earning their success the old-fashioned way: gigs, gigs, and more gigs. The band, fronted by vocalist and guitar player, Brent Peterson, played 217 shows last year and it showed during a stripped-down, early-winter appearance at Hill Country Barbecue. Tickets are $10 and doors at at 7pm. - On Tap Magazine

Brent Peterson is a Jamestown native who always had big city dreams to be a musician and tour the country writing and producing his own unique blend of heartfelt music, a dream that was facilitated growing up by local bands like The 10,0000 Maniacs and acoustic acts like Bill Ward.

Though he may have gotten a little side tracked in pursuing his dreams, as he gave up on the music for a bit to pursue a career in clean energy finance in Washington DC, he then quit his job 7 months ago because the itch to pursue music was too strong. After recently completing an internship with Dave Mathews Band management firm, Red Light Management, I’d say he’s right back on track.

The best word I can think of to describe what the sound is like on his new EP “Not How We Dream” is warm, and the other word that comes to mind is inviting.

Although these two adjectives sound more like a review of a home rather than a CD, I think they fit Brent’s sound just right, especially on the opening track ironically titled “Home.”

From the beginning you are immersed in a mellow, melodious acoustic guitar driven intro that gives way into a swinging horn section, and eventually a very catchy slide guitar hook. We are greeted by Brent’s subtle yet resonate voice that really carries the tune from start to finish with it’s rich, deep tones, noticeably in the chorus, where his voice seems to really take over.

“My New Life” branches out with very rustic sounding violin and banjo hooks, and a chorus that could’ve come straight out of an old country ballad.

“Second Line” gets back to the horns with a fun start and stop verse, which builds into a horn driven chorus that shows off Brent’s very full voice while still maintaining a bit of restraint throughout.

The last two tracks “If I Knew” and “Breathe” are more stripped down and simple acoustic ballads that carry the heartfelt warmth that Brent seems to have pinned down so well.

All in all, “Not How We Dream” is an impressive debut release, which is stylistically straight-forward yet instrumentally diverse, showcases a very talented voice, has a high production value, and is great for a laid back summer afternoon.

To Visit the Brent & Co. website, visit brentandco.com.

To pick up a copy of the EP, visit brentandco.com/music. - Chautauqua Star

Jamestown Native Returns To Area For One-Off Gig

May 24, 2012
By Scott Shelters - Family Editor

Jamestown native Brent Peterson had a steady job.

He didn't need to pursue a full-time music career, but the Charlottesville, Va. resident did just that. His career will bring him to his hometown tonight, when he will play a free show at the Labyrinth Press Company.

Peterson, a 2003 Southwestern High School graduate, became interested in music as a student at Kenyon College in Ohio, where he played in a Motown cover band.

Upon graduating from Kenyon in 2007, he decided to pursue a music career for the first time, moving to Chicago.

Shortly thereafter, Peterson got out of the music business and moved to Washington, D.C., working for the Department of Energy for three years.

"I was kind of burning out, working really long hours," he said. "It was really stressful. Music just kept calling me."

Peterson decided to try music full time again, leaving his job behind.

"Doing music well is very demanding as far as the time it takes to promote, book, write, record and all that," he said. "I figured if I'm going to quit my job, a very good job mind you, to do this half-baked idea of playing music, I need to figure out what I need to do to take the fastest route possible to a successful music career."

That route led him to an internship with Red Light Management. The company had helped Dave Matthews, Peterson's hero, get his start.

Peterson made the move to Charlottesville, where he spent seven months with Red Light, learning the basics of booking tours, media outreach, getting radio play and building a fanbase.

"A lot of artists like to get caught up in the emotional and artistic aspects of making music, and that's fine; that's where your inspiration comes from, but it's a business at the end of the day," Peterson said. "I learned the quick and dirty ways to run the business side of things."

In the past six months, Peterson has played 100 shows. He frequently performs with his three-piece band Brent & Co. but also books solo-acoustic gigs, such as tonight's show at the Labyrinth. The show will mark the release of his band's five-track, self-financed EP "Not How We Dream."

"I'm incredibly excited for it," Peterson said. "It's been a long journey to get to this point. I'm ready to finally dive in and do music full time. I just wanted to get it out there, get some radio play and see what the public reaction is. If it's good, we'll build from there. The show is going to be the first public airing of a lot of these songs, particularly in the state of New York and in my hometown. The goal is to share this with my friends and family who have been incredibly supportive throughout the whole process, so I thought it was fitting that the first public release of this would be for friends and family."

The all-ages show will begin at 7:30, and the CD will be available for purchase for the first time.

According to Peterson, the disc features several genres, including country, jazz, alternative rock and acoustic pop-rock.

"We tried to straddle a lot of genres while still holding onto our acoustic rock roots," he said.

Among other artists, Dave Matthews continues to influence Peterson.

"How I learned to play guitar and how I learned to sing was playing along to his records," Peterson said. "I know that sometimes that can kind of alienate people because he is very popular and very successful, but people have very strong opinions on him. They love him or hate him. There's always a risk when you identify with that sound. Dave Matthews has a very percussive, aggressive acoustic guitar playing style. That's definitely something I think I bring to my music as well. I like to think I also add a soulful vocal element that I picked up while playing in that Motown band in college."

Following Peterson's one-off area gig tonight, he plans to continue touring in the mid-Atlantic region, where he has begun buildi - Jamestown Post-Journal

Up and coming independent group Brent & Co recently released its second EP. The six-track, self-titled recording is one more of the best of this year’s crop of new EPs. It is a collection of songs that will impress any fans of Dave Matthew Band, John Mayer, and to a slightly lesser degree Jason Mraz. That is at least in regards to the record’s overall musical content. The lyrical content displayed in each of the EP’s songs will impress not just fans of the noted acts but listeners in general. The combination of both elements throughout the record’s twenty-two minute run time makes it a collection that paints a bright picture for Bren & Co.’s future.

Brent & Co.’s new self-titled EP is only the group’s second overall recording. But in listening to each of its six tracks, it shows that it is a rare diamond in the rough of the independent music scene. That is because it is one of those rare recordings that serves the argument that independent acts (both those signed to independent labels and those that are currently unsigned) can and at times do hold their own against their more well-known counterparts. In the case of Brent & Co, the band’s new self-titled EP it holds its own quite well. While the songs featured on this disc exhibit obvious influences from the likes of Dave Matthews Band, John Mayer, and Jason Mraz the songs themselves are just as clearly original both in terms of their lyrical and musical content. That is most obvious late in the record’s run in the form of ‘Collected.’ The Dave Matthews Band influence is clear in regards to its musical content considering drummer Dominic Fragman’s funk-infused beats and saxophonist Derrick Michaels’ work on his instrument. Front man and namesake member Brent Peterson adds to that influence with his work on acoustic guitar and even his vocal delivery style. Even with its musical similarity to Dave Matthews Band here the band members make a clearly concerted effort to not let themselves just be a cookie cutter to the aforementioned band. Rather they have taken that sound and used it for an original song that holds its own quite well against the likes of DMB and others of that ilk. In regards to the song’s lyrical content, it is just as enjoyable. Peterson sings in the song’s lead verse, “Legs tremble/Fingers twist/Eyes lookin’ into mine/As we kiss the last taste better than the last time…never mentioned the risk of falling in love/Well still I see you as you’re walking out that door…I just keep asking myself why is it this way anyway.” He goes on to sing in the song’s second verse, “So long running this obsession of mine/I tried to quit but I turn around every time/My friends say I’m crazy/But I know in my mind/Things will work out…just give it a little time.” Here Peterson comes across as singing from the vantage point of a man that is head over heels for a certain woman. His friends are telling him not to pursue her and that she’s nothing but trouble. And he knows deep down that it’s a risk. But she’s so intoxicating that he just can’t fight it. What man hasn’t been there? Exactly. The upbeat vibes of the song’s musical content complement these lines quite well. The two come together to paint a rich picture to which so many can relate. That ability of Brent & Co. to relate to its audiences so well and entertain them just as much shows clearly at least in the form of ‘Collected’ why this band’s new EP deserves more than just one listen. It isn’t the only of the record’s high points either. ‘Why Oh Why,’ the record’s third track is another example of what makes this independently released EP so surprisingly enjoyable.

‘Collected’ is in its own right a clear example of what makes Brent & Co.’s new self-titled EP a diamond in the rough. It is hardly the only way in which the record shows itself to be so surprising. ‘Why Oh Why,’ the EP’s third track is yet another example of what makes this collection of songs stand out. What’s really interesting here is that where ‘Collected’ boasted something of a Dave Matthews Band sound, ‘Why Oh Why’ boasts something more along the lines of a country/bluegrass sound complete with fiddle played by Patrick McAvinue. Even more interesting (and this is just the opinion of this critic), is that in his delivery here, Peterson actually sounds somewhat like Counting Crows front man Adam Duritz. It is an interesting combination. But it works. And it does so, again, quite surprisingly. That’s just one part of what makes the song work so well. The song’s lyrical content deserves just as much attention. The song’s lyrical content presents a song that is yet another love song. Yet it isn’t one of those standard schmaltzy, over-the-top pieces that are so common among the country/bluegrass world or that of any other musical genre. Rather, it is a touching, heartfelt piece that is sure to put a smile on any loving couple’s faces. Peterson sings from the vantage point of a man trying to convince a woman just how much she means to him. The woman in question obviously has some self-esteem issues as she asks in the song’s chorus, “Why oh why do you waste your time?” She is asking the man why does he waste his time with her. His answer: “You waste your time on me.” He goes on in response to ask her, “Why oh why/Are you so blind to see/You’re beautiful.” Anyone not moved by this is simply not human. From here the man continues to gently convince the unnamed woman of his affection for her in the remaining verses, singing to her over and over again in the final lines that she is so beautiful. The gentility in Peterson’s voice as he sings alongside his choice of words makes this song, at least in terms of its lyrical content, a truly touching and impressive love song. That lyrical content set against the song’s equally moving musical content makes it the kind of song that one might expect to hear on the soundtrack of any major name romantic movie. Considering that it is coming from a largely unknown band, that speaks volumes of the song. It also speaks volumes about the band members’ talents. It still is not the last example of just how surprising Brent & Co.’s new EP proves to be. ‘A Little Bit Closer’ is one more example of that surprise.

‘Collected’ and ‘A Little Bit Closer’ are both clear examples of what makes Brent & Co.’s new self-titled EP a surprisingly enjoyable collection of songs. While both songs are enjoyable additions to the EP in their own right, they are hardly the disc’s only high points. ‘A Little Bit Closer,’ which opens the record, is one more high point that deserves to be noted. In regards to its musical content ‘A Little Bit Closer’ instantly conjures thoughts of John Mayer and Jack Johnson (if one can imagine the two acts’ sounds combined into one). Peterson is just as impressive here both in regards to his vocal delivery as to his talents on the guitar. One can almost see him on stage holding his guitar close as he sings a la Dave Matthews, but singing with the style of Johnson and Mayer. Dominic Fragman shows yet again his own talents behind the drum kit as he keeps time. There is a certain free-flowing, bouncy energy exuded in his performance here. It’s almost as if he is just jamming out versus actually playing a fully constructed section of the song. His performance just feels and sounds that natural. The harmonies generated by bassist Joseph Martone add even more depth to the song, making for even more enjoyment. Add in the song’s equally interesting lyrical content and audiences get quite the interesting composition. In regards to the song’s lyrical content, the song explains itself especially through its title. Peterson is singing about a man wanting to get closer to his woman. Though, since he doesn’t directly note that the singer is male, it could just as easily be a woman. So it really goes both ways. From sitting together on the couch, on the beach, or other situations, the song’s subject asks his/her love interest how he/she would react if the other got closer, got bolder and made that move to show that affection for the other. The positive energy in the song’s musical content wonderfully compliments this question and the very anticipation of making that move expressed by Peterson’s subject throughout the song. It is one of those songs that will help set the mood for any brand new couple that is beginning to move past that very first stage of getting to know one another. All of this in mind, ‘A Little Bit Closer’ proves in the end to be a solid introduction for Brent & Co. on its new EP. It also proves the song to be one more of the record’s highest points. Together with ‘Why Oh Why’ and ‘Collected,’ all three songs clearly and solidly show why this up and coming independent act is destined for greatness given the right support. Brent & Co. is available now. It can be downloaded direct via Amazon at http://www.amazon.com/Brent-Co/dp/B017E3O3TY/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1447777701&sr=1-1&keywords=Brent+%26+Co.

Brent & Co.’s new self-titled EP is one of the best of this year’s crop of new EPs. That is because of its originality and ability to entertain audiences in whole. Over the course of its twenty-minute plus run time, Brent & Co. keeps audiences engaged and entertained with songs that musically display the influence of the band’s more well-known counterparts, yet still maintain their own identity from beginning to end. The record’s lyrical content is just as certain to keep listeners engaged and entertained. That is because while the songs are lyrically centered on relationships, not one of the songs ever goes over the top in its lyrical content. They never get schmaltzy. This is exhibited in all three of the songs noted here. It is also exhibited just as much in the EP’s remaining trio of tracks. Regardless of which song(s) one chooses, it can be said of the record in whole that it is a diamond in the rough that every listener will be glad to discover. More information on More information on Brent & Co. is available online now along with all of the band’s latest news at:



Website: http://www.brentandco.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/brentandco

Twitter: http://twitter.com/brentandco - Phil's Picks

Intro: Brent & Co. are an indie act that serves to do nothing but maintain their credibility and deliver music that you'd love to listen to. A perfect balance to your current playlist, I recommend them as a band to listen to now.

EM: Tell us the brief history of your band.
Brent & Co., like all great things, can trace it's origins back to Craigslist - I think it was 2009. At the time I had job with the government but really missed making music. I found a band looking for a singer but that group imploded under the weight of dysfunction after about a month. However the bassist from that project and I kept in touch and, long story short, he was my conduit for meeting all the current band members.


EM: How was the making of the record and the recording process?

If there is one thing I've learned it's that recording ALWAYS takes longer than you can imagine. Our last EP took six months since it lacked a clear vision and was recorded one instrumental layer at a time. It was painful. For this project time wasn't on my side - it is dedicated to my grandma who was ill at the time. The songs were road tested already and a few rehearsals with the producer helped tighten up arrangements. We had an incredible studio (Bias in Springfield, VA) that enabled us to track the main instruments live - we did it all in just five days and in nearly 7 weeks we had a finished product in hand! I was able to get my grandma a copy just weeks before she passed and knowing that she heard it and read my note thanking her for years musical encouragement made all the stress worth it.



EM: Your new record has just come out. What do you feel the reception has been like?
The reception has been incredible. This album is a mix of new and old ideas so fans were familiar with some of the material. But with new, tighter arrangements and incredible performances by everyone on the record we feel all the material on the record is new to us again. Our CD release show in DC at the end of our fall tour was the ultimate test and it was a smashing success.


EM: Who are your musical influences?
The beauty of our sound is that it comes from an wide range of influences. Personally, I can trace my musical origins to the first time I heard Van Morrison's "Caravan" - things weren't the same after I realize how hard acoustic guitar and horns could groove. But Dominic Fragman (drums), Joe Martone (bass) and Derrick Michaels (sax) come from very different backgrounds and tastes and it's this diversity of perspectives that truly shapes our sound.

EM: What advice would you give to fellow bands who are where you guys are now?
First I'd ask them for advice - you never know what they've been through. Then I'd just encourage them to keep plugging away - in this era many artists see The Voice / American Idol and think overnight success is a real thing. It's illusory and success only comes from hard work.

EM: In your opinion, what are the biggest obstacles for bands in the music industry today?

It's strange - this a golden age for making music in which the playing field has been leveled. Ubiquitous access to digital audio & video recording/distribution enables everyone to punch above their weight. But you have to be savvy to cut through the noise - people aren't buying music these days so (for us at least) the bulk of our living is made through live performance. The "art" is critical but you have equally passionate about your business model too.


EM: Where do you see this band going in the next few years?
Music is a long and often lonely road - but each mile we travel the horizon keeps getting brighter. It's our hope that as a band we keep growing musically and personally. We travel in a small Hyundai station wagon so the fact that we haven't killed each other yet is a good start. We're excited to keep touring, expanding into summer festivals and meeting new friends along the way!

EM: Tell us a random fact about yourself.
I hated Brussel Sprouts my whole life only to learn recently that they are amazing! - Emporia Music