Fredericton’s Free to Grow consistently delivers an intriguing musical experience. This dynamic quality may stem from the band’s ever-changing lineup or the creative vision of its founder, Jeff Patch. I believe both elements play a crucial role. Each musician who joins the band brings their unique flair, while Patch’s diverse influences—from Jethro Tull to Pink Floyd and 1970s prog rock—add a distinctive touch to the music scene. Life would indeed be dull if we all sounded the same.
The EP “Lady of the North (and other fine stories)” features seven band members, with each of the three tracks showcasing a different lead vocalist. Patch takes the lead on the title track, while Amanda L. Case and James Morrison front the other two. Morrison, along with Rob McFee, delivers impressive electric guitar work, complemented by Patch’s acoustic contributions. Alan Gray and James Rooney lay down the solid bass and drum foundation, while Natalie Thibodeau’s backup vocals on “Haunted” add depth. The EP’s success lies in the musicians’ ability to masterfully balance their instruments, knowing when to shine and when to step back, allowing others to take the spotlight.
True to their name, Free to Grow continues to evolve. This release marks the debut of guitarists Morrison and McFee, both accomplished musicians involved in various projects. McFee’s lead guitar energizes the title track, supported by a rhythm section that delivers a compelling, almost medieval cadence. Patch’s straightforward yet profound vocals leave a lasting impression. Morrison’s leadership on “Lost in Space” introduces a fresh, unique sound to the band’s repertoire, likely giving the song a harder edge than Patch’s original composition. The EP concludes with Case leading the beautiful “Haunted,” enriched by Thibodeau’s harmonies and the seamless ‘guitarmonies’ of Morrison and McFee.
This short release is thoroughly enjoyable (clocking in at 10 minutes), with its variety enhancing the overall experience. Each song is paired with a video, featuring humorous scenes that remind us of the band’s ability to balance professionalism with a light-hearted approach. Free to Grow exemplifies the beauty of constant evolution, proving that life’s richness lies in our ability to grow and change.
Find out more about Free to Grow here: https://www.freetogrowband.com/
Ollie LeBlanc, based in Fredericton, New Brunswick, discovered his love for music in his parents' basement with a box of classic rock LPs. A lifelong fan, his fascination with music has only grown over the past three decades as a musician. Ollie has worn many hats, including bassist, producer, engineer, and photographer. As he matures, his journey has become more about contributing to the musical community and sharing its richness. What better way to give back to the medium that has given him so much!
