by Andi Bricklin
Photos by Butch Hogan
The van is gassed and the instruments are clean and tuned up as The Felice Brothers started their summer tour on June 4th in Brooklyn, IL. The band will be making their way over and down to Philadelphia when they headline Ardmore Music Hall on June 11. We got the low down on all things Felice from brother James.
“We’ve been home since March,” says Felice. The band has been on a bit of a break from tour, working hard on writing and recording new material. The studio is in a garage on a farm in upstate New York. Amongst the ducks and chickens, The Felice Brothers have been taking a different approach to recording this album then they have in the past.
“It’s a more direct process.” The Felice Brothers are recording completely live with minimal overdubs. “We will go back and add some harmonies, but nothing too elaborate.” Felice adds, “I’m excited about this crop of songs.” However when asked to choose a favorite, he sighs. “It’s hard… it’s like trying to pick a favorite child.”
Capturing the beast that is the Felice Brothers live will be no easy task, and I for one am looking forward to this next album, for sure! So when will that be? “Soon? This year at some point,” promises Felice. We’ll keep you posted…
But first a tour! It’s shaping up to be a great one. Philly is one of the first few dates on the road featuring bluegrass babes Della Mae opening the show. It’s sure to be an incredible night of music and fun! A few dates in IA and NE will include singer/songwriter and friend Conor Oberst. “He’s a fun hang and great to work with,” declares Felice. Our interest is now piqued; we’ll add him to our playlists.
The Felice Brothers will wrap up the east coast-ish tour at the Solid Sound Festival in North Adams, MA before heading to the UK for most of July! “The UK is beautiful in July,” Felice says. “Fans in the UK are an intense bunch of people. [They are] a lot like the Americans who come to our shows.” I guess it takes one to know one, James.
Get your tickets now (yes, now!) for the June 11th show at the Ardmore Music Hall and we’ll all have an intense night together! The band is also playing in York, PA at the Capitol Theatre on June 10th. Road trip anyone?
