SONG PREMIERE: Andy Brasher Delivers Newfound Introspective Americana on Wistful “Myna Bird”

Kentucky’s Andy Brasher brings fresh energy to the Americana music scene through his vivid storytelling, soulfully captivating vocals and mastery of his instrument — all of which are on full display with his stunning debut solo release, Myna Bird.

Having already headlined shows across the U.S. and internationally, Brasher’s previous band Brasher/Bogue has also shared the marquee with Tim McGraw, Kid Rock, Kenny Chesney, Hank Williams Jr., Charlie Daniels, Blackberry Smoke and many more over the course of their tenure.

Produced by Harry Lee Smith (Restless Heart, Angeleena Presley, Martina McBride) and multi-Grammy award winner Ross Hogarth (Keb’ Mo’, Shawn Colvin, REM, John Mellencamp) at Nashville’s renowned Blackbird Studios, Myna Bird is equal parts modern Americana and stone-cold country, laden with folk philosophy and clever turns of phrase. Smith & Hogarth’s expert production flourishes are apparent throughout, from the warmth of the acoustic guitars, radio-ready electric guitar tones and licks, the crack of each snare hit, to Brasher’s singular vocals nestled neatly on top of each track.

Born and raised in Owensboro, Kentucky, music was a family affair for Brasher from an early age. After learning to play the acoustic guitar — taught by his father and grandfather — crafting songs became second nature for him. Brasher studied under the lyrically driven music of Townes Van Zandt, Steve Earle, Bob Dylan, and Guy Clark, while also taking sonic cues from rock luminaries of the era such as Lynyrd Skynyrd, Led Zeppelin, and Queen. At the age of fourteen, Andy started his first band and began performing at parties, festivals, and bars in his hometown. Through his soulful interpretation of covers as well as his original works, he built a large and loyal local following that gave him the courage to relocate to Nashville and explore the music scene. Brasher refined his skills in the Music City’s renowned honky tonks and songwriting circles, gaining wisdom through valuable life lessons along the way.

In 2009, Brasher and fellow musician Dustin Bogue recorded an album of ten songs and formed the band Brasher/Bogue. While formed as a duet, Brasher/Bogue grew into a five-piece band that began their touring career on Kenny Chesney’s 2011 “Goin’ Coastal” tour. By 2012, Brasher/Bogue had produced three albums and were a staple of the festival circuit, as well as regularly supporting top national acts.

Slated for release in 2020, Myna Bird sees Andy Brasher poised to continue to build on the momentum from these past experiences. It’s an offering from a songwriter and performer at the top of his game, and a remarkable solo debut that should see this Kentucky resident continue to make a name for himself in years to come.

Glide is proud to premiere the title track “Mynabird” an introspective nugget of stunning simplicity that brushes over a tart emotional tone. Brasher rekindles nostalgic artists with a sprinke of twang including Leon Russell, Dwight Tilley and Whiskeytown.

“Myna Bird’, is the song of an entertainer. The last song of the evening. Not the encore, but much, much later; After the curtain has come down, the people have all gone home and he’s left alone to wonder ‘who am I now that the show is over’. I think ‘Myna Bird’ is a fitting title track for the new album and the song’s release heralds the coming of the full album in April. ‘Myna Bird’, like many of the tracks on the new album, attempts to tell the story from the other side; from a perspective maybe not so often heard,” says Brasher about the track.