Bryan James Gatten

Bryan James Gatten is a Minnesota based guitarist of a variety of styles, including (but not limited to) rock, blues, classical and jazz. Gatten's most recent release, Contact Imminent (2021), features ten brand new tracks of melodic, fiery guitar playing and slamming drum grooves. Joining the fun is Gatten's father, Eric Gatten, on bass. "We've always had a strong musical connection," says Bryan, "and his bass adds a lot to every song. It's a privilege for me to be able to still make music with him."

All tracks were written by Bryan, and they tell a musical story, especially when listened to in order. "I realized after the album was finished that, quite accidentally, it worked as one extended work rather than just ten separate pieces. There are certain musical themes, whether with the rhythms, melodic pieces or harmony that tie it all together."

Gatten began playing guitar at the age of 6, and ever since has been making waves as virtuoso talent, especially in live performance. Since 2013, Gatten has made Minnesota his home base. His 2017 album, The Blue Hour, was written as an homage to Minnesota and specifically the area of Duluth and Lake Superior. "I was always struck by both the natural beauty and the humanity of the area, and have been proud to call it home. That album was a 'thank you' to the area for letting me do my music here, my way."