Baltimore’s Brunswick is set to release a two-song single on July 31st, featuring “More 2 Me” and “Finer Points,” both offering a glimpse into the band's unique fusion of genres and energetic live performance style.
Formed almost by accident, Brunswick began when Marc Cashin (guitar/lead vocals) set out to record a small demo. This quickly evolved into a full-fledged band when he reconnected with drummer Jamaal Turner. Their chemistry rekindled, and they started to build the band, bringing in accomplished funk and jazz trombone player John McCahey, saxophonist Jay Fenner, and trumpet player Makai Guest. Bassist Andrew O'Donnell, lead guitarist Tom O'Donnell, and keyboardist Josh Miller rounded out the lineup, each member adding their distinct flair to the group's sound.
Brunswick's music is a seamless blend of indie/alternative energy, singer-songwriter lyrics, pop arrangements, and a three-piece funky horn section. Their live shows are a testament to their high energy and improvisational spirit, offering new takes on their songs each night, much to the delight of their dedicated and ever-growing fanbase.
The upcoming single’s A-side, “More 2 Me,” has been a labor of love for the band. Initially conceived during the sessions for their debut album, "The Same Ground," the song didn’t initially fit the sound they were striving for. However, the band’s persistence paid off. Jamaal recounts how a faster, more energetic tempo transformed the track, adding a Latin Samba flair and an "easter egg" ending that has made it a live favorite. Influences from Sting, The Police, Samba, Dave Matthews, and Snarky Puppy are evident, making “More 2 Me” a dynamic and exciting listen that captures the band's diverse inspirations and collaborative spirit.
“Finer Points,” the single’s B-side, originated from a looping guitar riff introduced by the lead guitarist during a rehearsal. Initially intended as a mellow, laid-back tune, it evolved significantly with contributions from the horn section, morphing into a bar jam and then a big band close. The song’s arrangement posed challenges but ultimately resulted in a complex and satisfying track, featuring a standout bass solo. Despite the playful uncertainty about Marc's lyrics during live performances, the track has become a staple in their setlist, showcasing their ability to adapt and refine their sound in real-time.
Brunswick’s upcoming release is a testament to their growth and evolution as a band. With “More 2 Me” and “Finer Points,” they continue to push the boundaries of their genre, delivering music that is both innovative and deeply rooted in their diverse influences. Fans and newcomers alike will find something to love in these new tracks, solidifying Brunswick’s place in the indie/alternative scene.
