When I start writing a song, it always sounds like a Hank Williams song in my head. When I’m done with it, though, it’s something completely different.” - Patrick McLaughlin

Patrick McLaughlin

True to the carefree whims of his creative process, Patrick’s eclectic sophomore solo album, Just Like The Record  (Bolt Records), is a soulful, genre-busting collection of fine indie-Americana songcraft.

The album title speaks to the guitarist/producer/composer/singer’s playful stage banter quip after he drastically reimagines a classic song onstage. He’s a masterful roots and blues guitarist with a widescreen musical perspective that reaches well beyond preconceived boundaries. His artistry draws from rock, jazz, soul, indie-rock, and R&B. Patrick is also a thoughtful songwriter, serve-the-song musician, powerful vocalist, and an accomplished producer. All these facets—plus years of live performance, sharpening his chops—come together on the Columbus Ohio-based artist’s stunning new album, Just Like The Record.

“I make it a rule for my latest record to never sound like my previous one. This album was built to sound different. None of the songs sound the same, and I love the idea that each song is a stylistic surprise,” he says.

Patrick is an inventive and seasoned roots rock musician. His artistic fingerprint recalls Americana songwriter innovators such as Tom Petty, Keb Mo', Bob Dylan, Steve Cropper, John Hiatt, and Chris Stapleton. He has earned plaudits from Blues Matters, Thrust Magazine, and won the Columbus Music Awards “Album of the Year.” Select performance highlights include appearances at popular festivals such as Navasota Blues Festival, Texas; Foothills Music Festival, Ohio;  Big Bend Blues Festival; and Creekside Blues and Jazz Festival. Previously, Patrick released his self-titled solo debut in 2011.

Just Like The Record is a culmination, so far, of a creative journey. It captures the many facets of Patrick’s artistry at a high level. Each song builds excitement by using various stylistic textures allowing the listener to take part in a new encounter. The songs feature fresh collaborations and instrumentation, and some of Patrick’s finest songwriting. “With this record, I feel like I got some unfinished business done, and I’m already starting the next new record.”

 

Technical, Improvisational, Uncompromising, Powerful

Bio

Patrick McLaughlin has been a staple in the Columbus, Ohio music scene until recently relocating to Central Florida. Performing and touring most notably with Ric Boals & The Souls, Kathy Wolf & Wolfhound, and his own groups.

Patrick was a finalist in 2004 at the IBC and has since judged both local competitions and the IBC itself. He is known as a bandleader, songwriter, producer and label co-owner for BOLT Records.

Patrick's latest CD, Just Like The Record was selected as the ‘Best Self Produced CD’ by The Columbus Blues Alliance 2023. His self titled debut was selected for the 2012 IBC competition, finishing in the second round. The album was chosen as the 2012 Columbus Music Awards Album of the Year, and both albums received consideration for the NARAS 65th & 54th annual Grammy Awards. All 12 tracks placed on the RMR Charts at (#2 Top 50 Ohio Album Chart, #18 Top 50 Contemporary Blues Album Chart, #27 Top 50 Blues Album Chart, and #40 Top 50 United States Album Chart.)
 

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