I’ve seen Brett Dennen perform at least a handful of times at many different venues and festivals. Last night at The Fillmore was by far the best I’ve seen him perform. The crowd was really active as well which he played well with. Before the show he had a little meet and greet where he answered any questions from us as well as played a couple acoustic songs. When asked who his biggest musical influences are he stated Paul Simon and Van Morrison. He later told a story about Jerry Garcia and that he worships him as well. He was reserved and quirky with a good sense of humor and played a song he doesn’t play very often from my favorite album “Hope for The Hopeless”. He grew up in Oakdale, California and had an amazing childhood he said, stating he was free growing up. He rode his bike everywhere and was just free! The Fillmore is a special place as his dad used to tell him stories of Bill Graham handing out apples there. It was so great to get some time with him to get to know him a little as himself and not just him performing.
So he has a new EP called Let’s….. with 5 songs as well as a new acoustic version to Already Gone he just released yesterday. I like both versions of Already Gone, but I’m always a sucker for anything simply acoustic. He is a very talented guitarist and can shred as well as finger pick with the best of them. He told a story about how he had performed for a benefit at the Fillmore many years ago and Mickey Hart heard him play and told him that Brett’s playing reminded him of Jerry Garcia. One of Jerry’s wife later said the same thing and Mickey overheard her and Brett talking, joined the conversation and repeated what he had said before. Brett said that this just might have been the best day ever, truly honored as Jerry Garcia is a hero of his. So the boy can play for sure!
His music is folky and fun with thoughtful lyrics and varies from electric to acoustic. Performed by Brett the songs come to life as he shakes his hips and moves his guitar in the way only the tall redhead can. He is always worth seeing and listening to his music can almost certainly brighten your day!
Mindfully Authentic 