Worse For Wear / Aquarian Review

If I said that Brian Fitzpatrick is the best kept secret in New Jersey, you might get the wrong idea. Hell, he might get the wrong idea. What I mean is that Brian, who has a large and loyal following, deserves an even bigger audience. His 2004 release Further Down The Line was one of the year's best albums, and Worse For Wear, despite the title, does not disappoint.

If you're looking for bombast, or political attitude, look elsewhere. But if you can appreciate simple, heartfelt, and expertly crafted songs played by a very talented band, and sung in Brian's appealing, husky tenor voice, this album is for you. "Carrie With The Broken Heart" tells the tale of finding artistic and emotional connection at a Jersey open mic night. The closing "Hey Mary" employs what sounds like a choir of friends on a chorus that will have you singing along.

Do yourself a favor. Now that you're in on the secret, spread the word. Brian plays around the area all the time. In fact, he'll be at Sullivan Hall in New York City for his CD release party on May 23. You can pick up a copy of Worse For Wear at the gigs, through ITunes, Amazon.com, or CD Baby.