Empire Strikes Brass – MARCH 15

This brass, funk, and rock band has much to say with a big sound. Chock-full of serious groove from a thumping rhythm section and lush horn arrangements, the band’s compositional roots, as well as its creative and collaborative soul, contribute lots of depth to its original tunes and covers.

Founded in 2012, ESB has grown from a party band of friends playing New Orleans-originated or inspired second-line and funk tunes with elements of rock and jam to a collective of players, singers, songwriters, and producers who have found an original sound that fuses their musical influences with fresh ideas while still holding to their foundation.

Featuring rich group and lead vocals from several members, including Grammy Award-winning artist Debrissa McKinney (Secret Agent 23 Skidoo), keyboardist/producer Lenny Pettinelli, drummer Nik Hope, bassist JP Furnas, guitarist Chris Porter, trumpet Alex Bradley, trombone Kyle Snuffer, saxophone It Pauly Juhl, and keyboard/percussion Sean Donnelly. Since their conception, they have been a constant fixture at festivals throughout the USA. Empire has also co-billed with some of the biggest names in funk and soul.

The sound is undeniably solid when Empire Strikes Brass comes together, whether live or in the studio. The band’s debut album was recorded at Asheville’s renowned Echo Mountain Recording Studio and released in 2017. Entitled Theme For A Celebration, it was tapped as one of the year’s top 100 releases by WNCW 88.7 radio. ESB’s newest release, Brassterpiece Theatre (2019), also recorded at Echo, was a fierce follow-up, and both albums are available through all major music distribution streaming, sales, and listening platforms. Empire Strikes Brass is diligently working on their highly anticipated third studio album as they continue to tour and captivate audiences. Between shows, they craft and master new sounds that will undoubtedly leave their fans craving more.