Double Up with This American Song's April Release Show

Dave Schroeder

Pictured on the roof of the PACA building at 1505 State St.are longtime original Erie band This American Song. From left: Brent Knight, Dave Tamulonis, Jeff Phillips, Jesse Guerrein, Larry Wheaton, John Johnston, and Michael Milk.

SATURDAY, APR. 15

Join longtime local original favorite This American Song for a free event as the band celebrates the release of its two newest recordings, their Connect the Dots EP and Exile on State Street, a full length live album. "We want this to feel more like a party and celebration of songs than a traditional rock and roll show," says guitarist and lead vocalist Jeff Phillips. "We want everyone who is willing and able to come out and enjoy the night with us."

Originally formed around 13 years ago, This American Song started out as a creative outlet for Jeff Phillips and John Johnston (lead guitar, vocals) before growing to add bass and drums to become the band that began playing shows and recording in 2010. After several years, a horn section was added to the mix, which eventually led to the version of the band we know today.

Those years haven't been without their struggle, though, making both of these albums significant milestones for the band. Aside from pandemic-related difficulties, they experienced further disruption when two long-time members stepped away in the past few years, causing uncertainty for how the band would move forward. From this came Connect the Dots, a collection of songs created during this period of upheaval.

Shortly after, the current lineup was formed and practice began, resulting in tremendous growth for the band before beginning to play live shows again. "The Exile on State Street (Live at PACA) album is a perfect representation of the work that we did together over that year, bridging the former version of This American Song into where we are now," states Phillips.

Set to be a night of fun and entertainment, supporting acts include Fred Oakman & The Flood, Optimistic Apocalypse, and Bummer Country. Phillips mentions that each of these bands are good friends and will be a great fit for providing a fantastic night of music for all to enjoy.

Rounding out This American song alongside Jeff Phillips and John Johnston are Jesse Guerrein (trumpet, vocals), Brent Knight (drums), Michael Milk (bass, vocals), Dave Tamulonis (keys, violin, vocals), Marissa Litzenberg (saxophone), and Larry Wheaton (trombone, percussion, vocals).

Both releases are available for streaming across platforms and can also be downloaded free on Bandcamp, along with the band's other releases. Connect the Dots cassettes and Exile on State Street (Live at PACA) CDs will be available for purchase at the release show, as well as other band merchandise.

Doors at 6 p.m., music begins at 7 p.m. // PACA, 1505 State St. // Light refreshments provided while supplies last // Free, donations accepted