Interview: Ben Brandt discusses his new Americana album “Solid Ground”
his album. Working with him was pivotal in shaping the overall sound and development of the songs on the album.
AH: Can you share some memorable moments from the studio or during the recording of the album?
BB: One notable moment during the recording process was when we were selecting amps and ended up choosing small vintage amps (56 Fender tweed deluxe/64 Princeton reverb) which had a significant impact on the album’s sound. Additionally, the song “Solid Ground” was actually written on the last morning of tracking, not prior to recording.
AH: How much of an influence did your love for vintage guitars have on the album, and did you play any on the record?
BB: Vintage guitars are something I naturally gravitate towards, and I played my 1955 Les Paul conversion with a bigsby, as well as my 1959 Les Paul double cut Jr. on the album. These vintage instruments have been mainstays for me for many years.
AH: What advice would you give to beginners starting to play guitar about the allure of vintage guitars?
BB: While I appreciate vintage instruments, I don’t believe they are necessary to inspire or motivate someone to learn the guitar. Playing a $300 guitar can be just as effective. However, for those who appreciate American history, vintage cars, and the musical evolution of the 1950s and 60s, vintage guitars can be inspiring.
AH: You’ve had the opportunity to perform alongside Joe Bonamassa. Can you share a memorable experience from that time?
BB: Playing with Joe Bonamassa at the Hershey Theatre in Pennsylvania in 2024 was a standout moment. Being on stage with him, Josh Smith, and Reese Wynans was a reminder that consistency and hard work pay off in the music industry.
AH: With your father being a renowned songwriter, what lessons did you learn from watching him growing up?
BB: Watching my dad perform, record, and collaborate on music from a young age had a profound impact on me. Even at the age of 10, recording and playing music with him left a lasting impression. The demos he left behind served as inspiration for some of the songs on my album.
AH: How did growing up in New Jersey shape your musical journey?
BB: Growing up in New Jersey provided me with early opportunities to showcase my music, including opening for notable artists at a young age. Support from local radio stations and teachers helped me stay on the path of music. The experiences and opportunities I had in New Jersey shaped my musical future.
AH: If someone could only listen to one of your songs as an introduction, which would you recommend?
BB: “Solid Ground” would be a great starting point.
AH: And if they had time to listen to three of your songs, which ones would you suggest?
BB: Along with “Solid Ground,” “Little Something” and “End of Time” from a previous EP release offer a good representation of my musical direction.
AH: What are your plans for this spring and summer?
BB: I will be continuing to promote the album and plan to book a tour for the fall and next spring. I am also in the process of writing new material for future releases.
Thank you for speaking with us, Ben Brandt!