Emerging from the New York music scene, first with solo performances, and now with a band, singer-songwriter Rich Freeth's songs have been capturing a lot of people's attention. Among them, producer Jim Gaines (whose credits include Carlos Santana, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Steve Miller and Huey Lewis & The News), who took notice of Rich's expressive voice and and songwriting after hearing a recording of a live performance at CBGB 313 Gallery in New York City. Jim Gaines agreed to produce a project with Rich. "When Jim said he wanted to produce an album together I just couldn't believe it. Some of my favorite albums (like "In Step" by Stevie Ray Vaughn) were produced by Jim. He's an amazing producer, and a wonderful person to be around."
The songs from "Like in the Movies" were the result of a collaboration with guitarist Ben Peeler (The Wallflowers), in whom Rich found a kindred spirit while they were both passing through Miami. In addition to the Wallflowers, Ben's credits also include The Mavericks, Shakira, Jim White (produced by David Byrne" for Luaka Bop) and Nil Lara.
In addition to playing in New York's Village and Lower East Side (Arlene Grocery, The Pink Pony, CBGB 313 Gallery etc.) building up a following of dedicated fans, Rich and the band have been performing in Connecticut (Cafe 9, BAR, Koffee?), Miami FL, and even a few gigs in Brazil. Rich has opened for acts such as Freedy Johnston, Mary Lou Lord, Christine Ohlman, to name a few.
Drummer John Santarciero joined Rich after seeing a performance at "Arlene Grocery" in New York City. John plays with much enthusiasm and was a great addition to the band. Similarly enthusiastic is David Vignola who recently joined up to handle the bass responsibilities.
Rich describes his songwriting as being "...like an unruly child, it just wants to get into everyting...In the songs I sometimes use literary, and even film references. But still, I like getting aurally creative as well." "One of the biggest compliments I ever got was from producer Mark Berry (former apprentice to George Martin) who said simply, 'the songs speak for themselves.'"
Besides singing, playing piano and electric bass, Rich studied guitar with Robert Fripp of King Crimson. In Miami, Rich played with Tom McWilliams (drummer for Jon Secada). "Some of my favorite artists are: Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, Duncan Sheik, Eliot Smith, King Crimson and Gilberto Gil among others."
Recent recording sessions have been at Monkey Boy Studios in Manhattan; Brad Albetta and Cameron Greider (both play for Freddy Johnston, as well as Martha Wainwright) producing. The new CD will be released this fall. Check back soon for more.
