- PREMIERE: Eloah Jones – “Under the Bridge” - November 18, 2021
- PREMIERE: Highbeams – “Campfires” - November 10, 2021
- Tali Azerad Shines on New Album - November 5, 2021
GroundSounds recently caught up with Michael Bernard Fitzgerald to discuss his new album (out August 27), his musical tastes, and more. Make sure to check him out online, including his Facebook and Twitter
GS: Tell us about your background and how you got started in music.
MBF: I grew up in Calgary, Alberta. Got my first guitar from Santa at the age of 7. I never was too interested in guitar lessons though, so I eventually started writing songs. Bad ones. They’ve gotten a little better since then.
Your debut album Yes comes out on August 27th. How long did it take to write the album and what can listeners expect?
This album took a long time. I travelled back and forth to Los Angeles whenever I could to put the record together track at a time. The listeners can expect music to pour out of their speakers or headphones upon pressing play.
“Firecracker” is a refreshing track with a great vibe to it. What inspired the song?
Chicks. Haha. The intent behind that that song and lyric was rooted in upbeat fun.
“Last Train To Georgia” is one of my personal favorites. What’s the story behind that track?
Last train is one of my favorites as well. The beautiful and talented Esthero is on that track. I wrote that song on Brian’s studio couch. No real story, just another late night in Hollywood. Those verses are probably the most poetic for me on the record.
If you had to pick one, what song on Yes that you are especially proud of?
I love them all, so I pick all of them.
The variation of styles, tempos, sounds and instrumentation throughout the course of the album is something that stands out. What do you attribute this range to?
Indecision. Ha.
I have listened to and loved a wide variety of musical genres. I think that is apparent in my writing and delivery. This record was produced by Jon Levine and Brian west who are both talented musicians and their personal styles are riddled throughout the music as well.
After high school, you decided to spend some time in Australia. What was that experience like and what did you take from your time there?
That was my first experience living by myself. I loved that trip. I had a bicycle, a beach and a job on a boat.
You’re on tour with Bobby Long throughout August. What are you most looking forward to on this tour?
The tour has been fun so far. Bobby and his fans are all very nice people. Tonight we play Dallas, Texas. So it’s fitting that I would say that I am excited, specifically, for tonight in Dallas.
Do you have a ‘dream’ venue that you’d love to perform at?
There are so many. Most amphitheaters, beautiful theatres and large halls are on my dream list. Hollywood bowl, Carnegie hall, Massey hall to name a couple.
I know you’re a big fan of Paul Simon. What’s your favorite song on his classic Graceland album?
The title track “Graceland” is my favorite. Close seconds are “Diamonds On The Soles Of Her Shoes” and “You Can Call Me Al”
After this tour and the release of Yes, what are your plans for the rest of 2013?
I’d like to finish the year on the road.
Michael Bernard Fitzgerald – “Firecracker”
[…] You’ll never get bored listening to Yes. Michael discussed the variety in his music in our interview a few weeks […]