2 minute read
Music: Brandon McCarty
Despite the overwhelming popularity of country music these days - it's virtually the only genre that can sell out the Ford Center - there simply aren't that many local artists or bands carrying the flag. Tailgate Revival comes to mind as does singer-songwriter Cynthia Murray, but otherwise, the Evansville scene remains more rock-oriented. However, an up-and-coming artist just may be turning the tide. Originally from Mt. Vernon, 24-year-old guitarist Brandon McCarty headed our way in 2015 after graduating from high school, keen to develop his love for performing. "I grew up on Alan Jackson and Brooks & Dunn - they inspired me," he notes. "And Dierks Bentley was a huge influence - his stage presence was flawless." By 2016, McCarty had opened up for the Kentucky Headhunters and started taking songwriting seriously. Shortly after, he joined the military, signing up with the National Guard as a cannon crew member. Through it all, McCarty continued to pursue music while attending USI and networking with other tri-state country talents, crossing paths with fellow student Austin Peckham who later decamped to Nashville and partnered with Rascal Flatts for a bit. Seeing his friends succeed lit a fire. Soon
McCarty was making the rounds at area bars, coffee shops and restaurants, performing both covers and original material. Speaking of the latter, he scored a big local hit with 2020's "Niner Fiver," a party anthem on par with the likes of Luke Bryan. But McCarty also has a darker side. BRANDON MCCARTY Songs like "Alice" and "Perfect" capture a melancholy that truly resonates - as does the new single "I Found" which addresses a relationship gone bad but also touches on the struggles associated with PTSD. "It's a really good song - slower and sadder, but I think it will really touch people Up-and-coming country singer releases "I Found," and lend a helping hand," McCarty says. targets end-of-year EP release Beyond "I Found," McCarty plans to release an EP by year's end which will include the latest single plus a few brand new tracks - all recorded with local producer Stephen Horning. And he's getting some vocal assistance from the aforementioned Cynthia Murray, who also provided backup on "Niner Fiver." Ultimately, McCarty, despite being a gifted performer with an undeniable exuberance, hopes to find a niche as a songwriter in Nashville penning material for seasoned acts. But for the time being, we're privy to seeing him live at a host of venues and events this month. UPCOMING SHOWS 9/4 Front Porch Fest @ 3-5:30 p.m. 9/10 Backstage Bar & Grill (Blake Shelton pre-show) @ 5:30 p.m. 9/17 Jennings Street Public House @ 7 p.m. 9/18 Carson’s Brewery @ 7 p.m. 9/24 Half-Moon Saloon (Mt. Vernon, IN) @ 9 p.m.
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