In early '99, local singer-songwriter Brady released On My Own, a solid solo debut of melodic and at times brooding folk-rock. In addition to a distinctive, gravelly voice and strong song-writing talent, Brady has an impressive ear--he was the sound engineer for Wilco's recent American tour and is the house engineer at Schuba's. Though the record is a DIY effort, it is very professionally recorded and produced. Brady revisits some well-covered ground on his new record--Dylan (father and son), The Jayhawks and Freedy Johnson seem to be notable influences--but the package as a whole sounds remarkably fresh. Brady's ability to avoid the tired clich?s, both lyrically and musically, inherent in the alt-folk rock genre is notable and impressive. Brady is joined on On My Own by Elizabeth Conant (Aluminum Group) on keys and vocals, Fran Kondorf (The Juleps) on bass, and Ed Breckenfeld (The Insiders) on drums. Additional support is provided by Laura Caragher (vocals), Amy Eaton (vocals), and Buddah Slim (organ). The record was recorded and mixed at the soon-to-be-famous Baron von Trumfio's Kingsize studios.
The release is full of strong material. The first track "Change the World," is a slower track that superbly highlights Brady's vocals and perfect melodic counterpoint provided by Amy Eaton's backing vocals. The atmosphere of the song, much like that of the record as a whole, is dark and introspective but penetrated by glimmers of longing and, more importantly, hope. "Diamond Girl," another outstanding song, also features Eaton's vocals. "Whose Side Are You On?" is an up-tempo number with much more overt rock influences and more synth and organ. It is probably the most radio-friendly track on the record. "In The Rain," an instrumental track, shows that Brady is no one-trick pony. The song is a mix of classical guitar and a rock jam: imagine what would happen if Segovia sat in with Neil Young. One of the more beautiful tracks to come out the windy city in recent memory.
Though the record is self-released, it would be one of the surprises of the year if Brady was not picked up by a large indie or even a major label in the next few months. Rarely does a small independent debut sound this good.
Brady is a former member of Occasional Stray and also currently plays with Laura Caragher in her band Slow Jane.
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