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The Bryson Group may sound like an investment firm, but it is actually a conglomeration that specializes in melodic rock. Lake County guitarist Jesse Bryson first came to many people's attention via Qwasi Qwa a couple years ago and has now teamed up with guitar playing father, Wally Bryson, on "Dry", a 16 song project that channels groups like the Choir, the Raspberries, Tattoo and Fotomaker. Ironically, Wally Bryson played guitar in the latter four examples and recently traded some thoughts with OhioOnline music correspondent Peanuts over his musical travels to this point.
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| OO: |
At what point do you want to start this epic? |
| WB: |
"I was born in Gastonia, North Carolna, and moved to the Cleveland area when I was 4. I went to Mentor High, but wound up graduating from Griswold Institute and then went to Lakeland Community College for a couple of years. All the way along, my interest in music had been put in me by my parents and listening to the radio while growing up." |
| OO: |
Since you mentioned the radio, what national acts have influenced your music? |
| WB: |
"Duane Eddy, John Lennon/Paul McCarthy/George Harrison, the Rolling Stones, the Kinks, the Who, Free, the Byrds, Tom Waits, the Eagles, Brian Wilson, Sly Stone and the early BeeGees." |
| OO: |
In that case, describe your music? |
| WB: |
"My music is from the heart. It pays homage to my influences, but great care is taken to avoid plagiarism with every effort made to be as original as possible." |
| OO: |
What national acts would the Bryson Group match up with in concert? |
| WB: |
"Four that I've played with, the Beach Boys, Sly Stone, the Who and the Eagles and one that I'd love to play with and haven't, The Pretenders." |
| OO: |
Where was "Dry" recorded at? |
| WB: |
"Suma Recording Studio in Painesville."
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| OO: |
"Engineer Paul Hamann is a genuis. It's a great room with vintage Hammond, Steinway and Vox AC-30 to record on." |
| WB: |
A lot of name bands like Pere Ubu like to record there. Why did you wind up there? |
| OO: |
Favorite Ohio Venues to play? |
| WB: |
"Music Hall in Cleveland, along with the Beachland Ballroom, plus the Old Agora location when it was on E.24th St." |
| OO: |
Long term goals for the Bryson Group? |
| WB: |
"To get this music to the ears of as many people as possible." |
| OO: |
Final thoughts.? |
| WB: |
"My son Jesse is a true talent. He's done his homework and paid his dues, just like his dad. I'm very proud of him." |
