After a Rom-Com level meet-cute in a bar in Arnold, Maryland, Jim Patton and Sherry Brokus unknowingly ignited a lifetime of musical collaborations.
The now married couple has been making music together for over 15 years, since that fateful day when Brokus asked Patton if she could sing with his band – a tall order considering Patton was against any strangers sitting in. Together, Patton & Brokus are churning out rootsy folk numbers infused with traditional Americana sounds.
This duo has since released six albums, some of which were crafted in conjunction with their former band, Edge City. Led by producer Ron Flynt, Patton & Brokus’ upcoming album, Harbortowne, is set to debut September 20th, 2024 via Berkalin Records in Houston.
Though presently based in Texas, Patton & Brokus’ music pays homage to their Maryland roots, acknowledging the dynamic musical past that has led them to now. Featuring collaborations with Rich Brotheron, Warren Hood, John Bush, and BettySoo, this 12-song album reaches beyond the idea of a picturesque perfect life, instead delving into the weeds of everyday life.
Patton himself says that he drew lyrical inspiration from 20th Century fiction via the likes of J.D. Salinger, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and William Faulkner to name a few, as well as the lives of people he grew up with: from lawyers, to truck drivers, and in between. Though Patton & Brokus have developed their own folk style, one may hear hints of Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, Jimmy Buffett, and The Byrds.
The title track, “Harbortowne,” was initially released as a single back in June. Short and sweet, this jaunty tune will have listeners bouncing along with its simple melody and playful lyrics. This track specifically references Annapolis, where kids flocked from small towns to have fun and take risks. Brokus joins Patton in the chorus with some subtle harmonies to go with the sprightly string influence.
“Lottery” debuted in July as another notable single, offering a more reserved energy than “Harbortowne,” as this track feels more like a man narrating his own story. Sung by Patton, the story follows a man who lists his dreams of enjoying a relaxed life where money is no longer a concern. Though subtle, this tune offers a nod to the way that an increasing amount of cold hard cash is essential for even just a “comfortable” life in America, and naturally is often one’s sole motivation on this earth.
The mournful yet still playful lyrics of “Just Doesn’t Work Anymore” offers an introspective look into the quantity over quality mentality that has taken hold of our society. Though gently delivered, this song bears a message of how life has changed since the good ol’ days. Perhaps the most poignant line can be found in the chorus: “…it’s part of the past / Like everything else, it wasn’t made to last / They don’t build nothin’ like they did before.”
Concluding with “Start Again,” the album ends on a rather sorrowful note. A heart-wrenching piano melody (Ron Flynt) and violin (Warren Hood) accompaniment provide the backdrop for a melancholy story of lost love told primarily by Brokus. Though as the title suggests, there is a hint of hope for a better future. This tune is my personal favorite of the dozen, as it leaves the listener with a lasting message: “Every end is a beginning / Each beginning has an end / Don’t look back over your shoulder once you learn to start again.”
Each track of Harbortowne fuses the past with the present, bringing to light many of the everyday emotions and struggles of American life. Carefully written lyrics narrate stories of love and misfortune and many things in between, transporting you to a small beach town.
No matter where in life you may be, you’ll more than likely be able to find a tune on this album that resonates. Fans who want a bit more background on the duo’s journey can check out their blog here.
Patton & Brokus Tour Dates
9/08 – Austin, TX – NeWorlDeli (2pm)
9/14 – Austin, TX – KOOP-FM 91.7 (3pm)
9/16 – Wimberley, TX – KWVH 94.3 FM (10:15am)
9/19 – Nashville, TN – Brown’s Diner (AmericanaFest) [1:15pm]
9/19 – Nashville, TN – Bobby’s Idle Hour (AmericanaFest) [3pm]
9/20 – Nashville, TN – The 5 Spot (AmericanaFest)
10/8 – Austin, TX – How Did I Get Here w/ Johnny Goudie (podcast)
10/13 – Austin, TX – NeWorlDeli (2pm)
11/24 – Austin, TX – NeWorlDeli (2pm)
11/29 – Annapolis, MD – 49 West
12/08 – Austin, TX – NeWorlDeli (Jim’s Bday Show) [2pm]
2/15 – Jessup, MD – Edith May’s Paradise House
