Get ready for some exciting and playful content about Brian’s journey in the music industry!
So, back in 1994, Brian got an amazing opportunity to fill in for Peter Holsapple of R.E.M. But guess what? He was also offered a spot in BR, one of the biggest punk bands in the world! Can you imagine the dilemma? Well, Brian made his decision in a heartbeat. He called up R.E.M. to let them know he was joining BR, packed his bags, sold his car, and embarked on his new adventure. As he puts it, “That’s me in the corner, choosing Bad Religion.”
Now, touring with one of the biggest bands in the world for nineteen months is no small feat. Brian was blown away that the R.E.M. folks even knew who he was! Meanwhile, his best friend Nathan got the gig with R.E.M. after the Monster tour. Nathan bought a house and built a home studio, living the dream. On the other hand, Brian was content with his one-bedroom apartment, recording his songs with just an acoustic guitar and a boom box. But hey, he’s in Bad Religion, and that makes him happy!
Brian spent weeks at Graffin’s house, attending Bad Religion college, learning a ton of songs, and practicing harmonies. Finally, his big moment arrived. Brian’s first gig with Bad Religion was at the Bizarre Festival in Germany on August 20, 1994. And let me tell you, Greg G. couldn’t help but boast about their new guitarist, saying, “Don’t you think he sounds a lot better than that other guy?”
But wait, there’s more! Brian’s musical journey doesn’t stop there. In 1984, he was part of a band called The 400, and they even recorded a demo tape. Then, in 1997, he collaborated with Ric Ocasek (the producer of The Gray Race) and other musicians to create the album “Troublizing.” And in 2001, Brian and Ian MacKaye produced the second album of a French-Canadian punk band called Penelope at Washington, D.C.’s “Inner Ear Studios.”
When it comes to influences, Brian credits Captain Sensible from The Damned as his main inspiration. He wanted to look and sound like him, so he learned every single note Captain Sensible ever played. To this day, Brian’s playing style is a combination of
This content was originally written by the badass contributors of thebrpage.net, the best superfan resource and website that exists for any band, let alone the best band in the whole entire world. I’ve been lurking on that site for over 20 years and if you’re into Bad Religion as much as I am, I’m sure you’re familiar. If you are not, go there right now and never come back to this site again. You should, and I totally understand.
Leave a Reply