Hartford-based band Bronze Radio Return is still scheduled to perform Thursday, Nov. 1 at Toads Place, despite Hurricane Sandy’s effect on the Northeast.
This six-man band, each sharing an interest in music rooted in blues and jazz, met in 2008 while enrolled in Hartt School of Music, one of the country’s top music schools. Each member brings a unique style and flavor to Bronze Radio Returns’ sound, said Chris Henderson, the lead vocalist and guitarist.
“I usually start the songwriting process, and it gradually becomes a collective one with everyone adding their own taste,” Henderson said.
With influences like alternative-rock singer Ryan Adams, BRR is known for soulful lyrics and an ability to incorporate sounds from their childhood.
Listening to the lyrics, it’s clear Bronze Radio Return wants people to move and dance while listening. “You know, know, know, your only mistake is if you stand still so shake, shake, shake” are lyrics from the song “Shake, Shake, Shake.” The use of percussion along with hand clapping, foot stomping and crackling guitar riffs, it’s hard to remain still while listening to Bronze Radio Return.
BRR has had a lot of commercial success, with songs such as “Lo-fi” and “Digital Love” from its first album, “Old Time Speaker,” being licensed by advertisers and television shows. Its 2011 sophomore album and song, “Shake! Shake! Shake!” was recently featured in the global Nissan Leaf commercial.
The band has toured relentlessly around the country and gained a faithful fan base, Henderson said. He explained that in 2010, Bronze Radio Return was invited to perform for President Barack Obama in Bridgeport, Conn. to represent the state’s music scene. The band has also opened for many other musicians, including John Mayer and Grace Potter.
“We really enjoy opening for the larger crowds at those kind of shows; it is always a learning experience,” Henderson said.
After its current tour, which has taken them from New York to Los Angeles, Henderson and his bandmates Bob Tanen, Rob Griffith, Patrick Fetkowitz, Matt Warner and Craig Struble, aspire to tour internationally throughout Europe, Henderson said.
Tickets for the Nov. 1 show at Toad’s Place are $20, and doors open at 8 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online, as well as at the box office. Shuttles will not be running from Quinnipiac to New Haven.
