Brett Gleason: Music Can Overcome
Features Saturday, April 17th, 2010
I was recently introduced to a very unique sounding musician, Brett Gleason. I think he friended me on Facebook and then I looked him up on Twitter to follow. I immediately checked out his songs on iTunes and found a very different, very real sound. I would say it is emotion-filled and reminds me of early Alanis Morisette, but this is more poetry set to music. Basically, what you see is what you get: Brett, his keyboard, amazing voice, a drummer, a backup singer, and her laptop for sound effects.
Brett’s story is quite inspirational. He is originally from Long Island, NY and now lives in my hometown, Brooklyn. Obviously I am proud of a fellow Brooklyn-ite but it goes a bit beyond that. As a child, Brett was left with a severe speech impediment after an accident. I imagine it was difficult to deal with other children after that but Brett responded by submerging himself into literature and music lessons. His lyrics reflect his background perfectly and he can play a range of musical instruments as a result. He did not let his setback hold him back and at the young age of 26, he put out his first CD.
In a time where bullying has become such a horrible threat to young people, Brett’s story shows hope that you can overcome obstacles. By turning a negative into a positive he serves as an example to young people who think they cannot overcome the troubles they face. This is a perfect story of not only overcoming but shinning through.
I saw an update from Brett on Facebook saying he was going to be appearing at Crash Mansion in NYC at 7pm. Seven may seem early but it was perfect, I drove right into the City from work, found parking, and was right on time. Then I was treated to a great set of music that was charged with energy and emotions. His CD is entitled simply, The Dissonance, and I think that explains the sound as well. Not your typical pop music. No, not here, here you find something deeper and complex.
At some points during the performance, Brett stops to joke a bit and talk with the audience. He had to tape the words 
to one of his newer songs to his keyboard since he was not familiar enough with the lyrics. Like I said, very real. He even joked that he wasn’t singing his big hits because he was showcasing new music. The club was small and intimate which gave him a chance to come out into the audience when the show was over to meet some of his fans. Truly a very nice person, he shook hands and was so enthused to see each person. He even remembered my last name from our Facebook and Twitter interactions.
Brett Gleason’s music and lyrics are poetry in their rhythm and meaning. Check him out on iTunes, follow him on Twitter (@BrettGleason), become a fan on Facebook, and visit his site www.brettgleason.com. If he is performing in your area, go to a show and let him wow you in person. I think you will be pleasantly surprised at what you find.
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