The Bacon Brothers are set to play two upcoming shows in New York, as they continue their fall tour lineup across the country. Brothers Kevin and Michael Bacon banded together in 1995 to form The Bacon Brothers, an official name to the musical pairing that has been around since their childhood.
Having released 11 collections of music since then, the duo is looking ahead to two shows in New York State: November 17 at Albany’s The Egg, and November 18 at Westbury’s The Space.
The Bacon Brothers titled their first album, Forosoco, after their self-described genre, blending folk, rock, soul, and country influences. Most recently, they released “Philly Thing,” a single dedicated to their hometown of Philadelphia. The song benefitted charities Rock to the Future and Kevin Bacon’s own SixDegrees.org.
NYS Music had the chance to interview The Bacon Brothers ahead of their upcoming NYS shows, talking all things music, family, and upcoming projects.
Cara Denton: You’ve coined your own genre – forosoco. As you began your music careers, did you ever feel limited by genre categories, or was it a natural part of your philosophies to work outside those categories?
Michael Bacon: Forosoco is a non-category. Genre distinctions have been a part of popular culture since the radio was invented. It helps the music business focus on narrow marketing strategies that streamline their business model. The key to success in any endeavor is to find out what is different about yourself and get really good at that.
Kevin Bacon: We just go where the song takes us. Sometimes they feel more folky, rocky, soulful, or country. We’ve always said to ourselves let’s not try to stick to a “sound” let’s have our lack of a sound be our sound.
CD: What artists, instruments, or genres of music have shaped your musical education throughout your lives?
MB: I’ve always had two parallel worlds in art music (cello, oboe) and folk music (banjo, guitar ukulele, etc…). As a composer and songwriter, every day I draw from the unique musical ambiance provided by our parents in the house in which the 6 of us grew up.
KB: Wow so many. Starting with Michael and our sister playing guitars and harmonizing. Motown. British Invasion. TSOP. James and Joni. And on and on. I love drums. I had a drum kit in our basement. And congas. Bongos. Etc.
CD: What does playing a show in New York City look like for you? Any pre-show rituals, sightseeing, or food spots you like to hit?
MB: It’s our hometown and beats flying or driving to distant venues. It’s a ten-minute subway ride to City Winery.
KB: Sightseeing?! I’ve lived in NYC since 1976 so pretty much seen the sights. My favorite slice is Joe’s on Carmine if that helps.
CD: Family is a binding force and an important factor in your musicianship – how does that shape your performances, songwriting, or experience as musicians?
MB: Ours is a family business. Families draw apart when they lack connection. I’m really proud, and I take some credit for my brother’s success in the music business.
KB: Family is everything.
CD: Do you have any practices or hobbies outside of music that you turn to to find inspiration or rejuvenate your creativity?
MB: I enjoy sailboat racing, motorboats and crossword puzzles.
KB: Animals and nature. Being on a horse, riding through the hills.
CD: What’s next for the Bacon Brothers? Any new styles, collaborations, or new developments you’re particularly excited about trying?
MB: I’m hoping one of the new songs catches a wave and a lot of people love it.
KB: Very excited about the new record. Never thought we would make this much music!
An ever-musical family, The Bacon Brothers continue to yield tour dates and new music to come. Their recent EP, Erato, released in July of 2022, with five brand new songs. The title track features a belting chorus, resonant guitar strumming, and catchy lyrics. The duo is touring across the country now, with tickets for their shows in Albany and Westbury now available.
BACON BROTHERS UPCOMING TOUR DATES
Nov 11 – Larchwood, IA – Grand Falls Casino and Golf Resort
Nov 17 – Albany, NY – Hart Theater at The Egg
Nov 18 – Westbury, NY – The Space at Westbury
Nov 19 – Hummelstown, PA – The Englewood
Jan 18 – Abilene, TX – Paramount Theatre
Jan 19 – New Braunfels, TX – Gruene Hall
Jan 20 – Cedar Park, TX – Haute Spot
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