Yes, it's been two years since the French Broads put out an album. And yes, they haven't played live in a year and a half. That doesn't mean they've been idle, however.
Each Broad has been quite busy since then August of 2003.
Chris got married and now has a family. Brian played bass in the New Randall Brown Quartet for a time.
John played on records for the Tim Lee Band, Angel & the Love Mongers, the Westside Daredevils and Todd Steed and the Suns of Phere. Oh, and he also released a solo record, Rough Skeleton, in February on Disgraceland Records.
Jim has been producing like mad at his Kat P Studio, working with Nug Jug, mastering John's record and, most recently, completing the album you're holding in your hands now.
So let's dispell any notion of laziness. In fact, the French Broads pick up right where they left off, with punchy, melodic pop music for the thinking person.
A rant against our ever increasing car culture starts things off with "Driver". This is followed by an homage to songwriter Nick Drake (Slip), musings on the allure of youth (Siren), patriotism run amok (America Police), a childhood acquaintance of John's who ended his own life (Tripp), the dull blanket of complacency (Broken Enough) and the fleeting nature of pure joy (Happiness).
Recorded at Kat P studio in Knoxville and mastered by Jim DeMain (Yes, Master) in Nashville, Better Wings, Better Happiness expands upon the guitar based pop music the French Broads have been making for the past 5 years.
After taking a two year break from performing, the Knoxville pop quartet The French Broads return with Better Wings, Better Happiness, their third Disgraceland release since their debut in 2001. The release will be celebrated on April 8th at the Corner Lounge. Also playing will be their friends, Nug Jug. Cover is $5. The show starts at 10.
