Hendersonville Theatre Presents: Empire Strikes Brass

Hendersonville Theatre is proud to launch its 2024 Hometown Sound Music Series with Asheville favorite, Empire Stikes Brass! This unforgettable performance is not to be missed.

This brass, funk, and rock band has a lot to say with a big sound. Chock-full of serious groove from a thumping rhythm section and lush horn arrangements, the band’s compositional roots as well as its creative and collaborative soul contribute lots of depth to their original tunes and covers.

Founded in 2012, ESB has grown from a party band of friends playing New Orleans-originated or inspired second-line and funk tunes with elements of rock and jam. Now, it consists of a collective of players, singers, songwriters, and producers who have found an original sound that fuses their musical influences with fresh ideas while still holding to their foundation.

Featuring rich group and lead vocals from several members including Grammy Award-winning artist Debrissa McKinney (Secret Agent 23 Skidoo), keyboardist/producer Lenny Pettinelli, drummer Nik Hope, bassist JP Furnas, guitarist Chris Porter, trumpet Alex Bradley, trombone Kyle Snuffer, saxophone Pauly Juhl, and keyboard/percussion Sean Donnelly. Since their conception, they have been a constant fixture at various festivals throughout the USA. Empire has also co-billed with some of the biggest names in funk and soul.

When Empire Strikes Brass comes together, whether live or in the studio, the sound is undeniably solid. The band’s debut album was recorded at Asheville’s own renowned Echo Mountain Recording Studio, and released in 2017. Entitled Theme For A Celebration, it was tapped as one of the year’s top 100 releases by WNCW 88.7 radio. ESB’s newest release Brassterpiece Theatre (2019), also recorded at Echo, was a fierce follow-up and both albums are available through all major music distribution streaming, sales, and listening platforms. As they continue to tour and captivate audiences, Empire Strikes Brass is diligently working on their highly anticipated third studio album. Between shows, they are crafting and mastering new sounds that will undoubtedly leave their fans craving for more.