“I sucked for at least eight years,” admits Chris Parish. “But when you love something, you just keep trying, because it’s all you know how to do. You end up with an original sound, because when you started you weren’t good enough to sound like anyone else.”
Sucking no longer, Chris Parish releases his first full-length LP, Late Bloomer, in Ma...
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“I sucked for at least eight years,” admits Chris Parish. “But when you love something, you just keep trying, because it’s all you know how to do. You end up with an original sound, because when you started you weren’t good enough to sound like anyone else.”
Sucking no longer, Chris Parish releases his first full-length LP, Late Bloomer, in March 2006. Produced by Carter William Humphrey (Crankshaft, The Shards, Ninja Custodian, The Suzanne Carrington Band) and Mark Farris (Master Cylinder, Shepp And The 913), the album is a scorching collection of enrapturing melodies, killer hooks, and the kind of lyrical honesty that’s often lost in today’s musical environment of over-polished bland-rock and hip-hop showmanship.
“Paul Westerberg once said that every word he wrote had to relate to him, as a rule,” Parish continues. “I take the same approach. I’m no good at posturing anyway; it’s a wonder I’ve been able to keep a day job this long.”
The long musical journey of singer-songwriter Chris Parish begins as an aspiring musician just outside Detroit, MI. The burgeoning local music scene allowed Chris exposure to a wide variety of musical styles, from the melodic punk rock of Colic to the formerly-hip/hop Kid Rock. After college Chris moved to Richmond, VA where he fronted his first band, local heroes Mason Storm. Eventually, Chris made his way to Los Angeles and formed his own band, the seminal Summer of Kings. One album and countless Hollywood shows later, Chris broke off from SOK and decided to try his luck as a solo artist. His first effort, the 2004 EP Lost Her In Wyoming, was released to rave reviews and countless screaming girls (many of them sober).
Lost was the beginning – my first take as a solo artist, losing the security of being in a band, getting used to doing exactly what I’d always wanted. I’m really proud of that album. Mark (Farris, bass) and Scott (Swierski, drums) are outstanding musicians who never let their exceptional talent get in the way of what’s best for the song. I know that whatever mood or feel strikes me when I’m writing a new hit, they can bring out the best of the song onstage and in the studio,” said Chris.
With the release of Late Bloomer, Parish continues his musical journey. Songs like “Raining Blows” and “Sunday Morning” showcase the straight-ahead rock influence of Pearl Jam and Oasis, while “Walk On Mine” and “Girl From Wyoming” fulfill the emotional lament that haunts the listener, much like Elliot Smith and The Replacements. “Look My Way” and “Broken” are the types of irresistible hook-tastic bombs that have become Parish’s trademark, destined to become smash hits.
In the past two years, Parish has played before rabid fans in Boston, Texas, Minneapolis, Vancouver, and even the United Kingdom.
“I’m huge overseas,” he says. “Seriously – huge.”
"Chris Parish's music does not disappoint. Poppy upbeats and down to earth rock leaves you with a smile on your face, and a great tune in your head. Chris combines incredible songwriting with a great live show - he has an amazing stage presence, and hits the vocal notes live as well as he puts the tracks down in the studio. This is one artist to watch in the coming years!"
Krystal Seidel, Assistant Program Director, KTAI FM 91.1, Kingsville, TX
"In today's modern music society, Chris Parish is a breath of fresh air. While experimenting with different types of music, he manages to stays strong with his rock and roll roots. The response to his songs on our airwaves has been overwhelming."
Roger Lee, KTUH 90.3FM Honolulu, 91.3FM North Shore
"Chris Parish's songs transcend time, offering thoughtful lyrics and imagery layered over driving guitars and a raw, stripped down arrangement. His album Late Bloomer is a diverse mix of tempo and energy. You get a true sense of Chris' spirit and point of view with each track that highlights his ability to connect with an audience and deliver a relevant message without taking himself too seriously. Truly great tunes."
Sam Teplitsky, Founder, Cyrus Grape Entertainment
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