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originally published: 09/01/2023 

Long a favorite on the Country and Folk music scene in NJ and PA, after 15 years Michael Patrick finally decided to quit his day job to follow his musical passion full- time. Crossing Bridges, Patrick's 6th album tells the tale of taking the big leaps in life into the promise that lies ahead. With songs like "Richest Person in the Graveyard," Patrick shows he's got a new outlook on life and music.

Patrick's last release HOME, focused on the singer's new foray into country living having moved to a rural area on the west coast of New Jersey along the Delaware River, where, "his neighbors are now cows and horses!" Crossing Bridges shows that country life is bringing out the best in him, providing musical inspiration. Country, Folk, Rock, Blues, and even Gospel blend cohesively together on tunes like "This Heart of Stone" and "I Lived a Lot." Patrick boldly proclaims he, "wanted to create an album that felt like a Lyle Lovett recording." A "George Strait meets Jimmy Buffet vibe."

Fans of Patrick know he never limits his heartfelt lyrics to a single style. His songs are always heartfelt, (sometimes) autobiographical, with some of his signature sarcasm and humor thrown in for good measure in tunes like "It's Your World" and "She Called Me Sir," a witty lamentation on getting older.

While Home had a virtual release done via Facebook Live due to the challenges of the pandemic, Crossing Bridges will be released live and performed for the people. Crossing Bridges will have an official release party on Friday, Sept 29th at The Pattenburg House, 512 County Road 614, Asbury NJ, 08802. Showtime is 7:00pm. Special guests include JB Kline and Alex Radus. Patrick will be backed up by bandmates Michael Carr (lead guitar and vocals), Marc Young (keyboard), Arturo Baguer (bass), Tom DiGangi (drums).

In the past year alone, Patrick shared the stage with performers Steve Earle, Dave Mason, Asleep at The Wheel, and Pure Prairie League. With the release of Crossing Bridges Patrick is raring to go from opening act to headliner.

 

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Patrick was named Top Country Folk Artist by the Jersey Acoustic Music Awards, and has also shared the stage with Randy Travis, Clint Black, Rosanne Cash, Marty Stuart, Billy Joe Shaver, The Marshall Tucker Band, The Outlaws, David Allan Coe and Gary Allan, Carlene Carter, Justin Townes Earle and Chris Knight. He founded and fronts local bands, "The Suburban Hillbillies" and "Ring of Fire," a Johnny Cash tribute band.

He also offers a touching farewell to his friend and inspiration Justin Townes Earle, son of Steve Earle and someone Patrick shared the stage with many times with his tribute song "Justin Townes Earle". Patrick also pays homage to Earle with his renditions of "Earle's Walk Out" and "What I Mean to You."

Patrick has logged over 1500 live performances in the tri-state (NY, NJ, PA) area in addition to 3 annual tours down south. Along with his band he has performed at such prestigious venues as the Union County Arts Center, Strand Theater, Mayo Performing Arts Center, Paramount Theater, Bergen Pac, Newton Theater, Sellersville Theater, Stone Pony, Starland Ballroom, and BB King’s. Patrick has 6 original albums, HOME (2021), John Wayne Movies (2018), Another Song You Never Heard (2012), Something to Fall Back On (2008), Roots and Branches (2004).

Named Top Country Folk Artist by the Jersey Acoustic Music Awards, Patrick prides himself on energetic live shows with audience participation and interaction encouraged. He maintains a website which includes tour dates, media photos and video/audio clips.