The MIC is delighted as always to have the opportunity to chat with Connor Bracken of Connor Bracken and the Mother Leeds Band about their latest single, "Shine as One." Here's five fast facts about the band and their new track!
We're thrilled to have you guys back to ask a few questions on your latest release!
Thanks for having us back! I always look forward to reading The MIC and it is an honor to be included.
"Shine as One" was just released this Friday and follows the release of "Root," your previous single, which received rave reviews. What was the track's writing process, and did it differ from any of your earlier songs? Did you have any specific musical inspirations you were drawing from?
This one came a lot quicker! Like way quicker. I wrote the whole thing in about 5 minutes. I have the people at the Special Olympics to thank for asking for a song for their games down in Orlando, Florida. I liked the song so much that I knew we needed to have the full band on it and that it needed to be on a proper record. Huge thank you to them for letting me write them something.
What is the story of "Shine as One"? What does the title mean to you?
Boiled down, it's mostly about perseverance, which is why it worked for the S.O., but it's also a cliffhanger. You are not sure if the character actually gets to where they want to be in the situation. It's saying they have a want and willingness to do so; after this, who knows? Wanting something badly enough is the first step towards achieving it.
What was the recording process like working with Emmy-winning mixer Matt Rifino at Ponderosa Studio? Did the atmosphere of recording in the mountains of North Jersey have any affect on the record or the creative process?
Matt is super fun to work with! He gave us a full run of the studio and let me really go after the sounds I wanted. It was a pleasure recording at Ponderosa, and they have a dog named Roadie. He rocks.
What is one song you wish Connor Bracken and the Mother Leeds Band wrote and why?
"I Put a Spell on You" by Screaming Jay Hawkins. I don't know why but if I wrote it, I'd get to wear a cape at all my shows.
What are you most looking forward to with the band after the release? Playing "Shine as One" live? A tour? An EP? :)
The fun never stops over here so I have A LOT to look forward to! 2023 is going to be a big year for us, but we're not done with 2022 yet. We have a huge show planned for New Year's Eve and a few more surprises before that. Keep your eyes peeled; we're coming for ya.
Artwork: Joe Ruff
Stream "Shine as One" below!
Credits:
Written by: Connor Bracken
Guitar, Vocals: Connor Bracken
Guitar: Dee DiMeola
Drums: Rich Seyffart
Bass: Chris Dubrow
Mixed: Matt Rifino at Ponderosa Studio
Mastered: Dan Malsch of Soundmine Studio in East Stroudsburg, PA
Single Artwork: Joe Ruff