Peter J. Birch

If you happen to come across anyone playing and making folk, alt-country or americana, they must have a good reason for it. And even more skills. This is the case with Piotr Jan Brzeziński, a musician who has spent last eight years proving that guitar music is not doing all that bad these days. Of course as long as you have your own ideas how to do it . This gentleman, coming from Wołów, Poland, never runs out of them. Appearing under the name of Peter J. Birch, Piotr is a one-man orchestra who, no matter if alone or backed by accompanying band, needs only a few notes to build up unique atmosphere during his live performances. Peter J. Birch’s style has been maturing for years. The tender sound of guitar is accompanied by strong male voice, still rich in emotions. The lyrics are as important as the sound which is evident on each album by the artist from Wołów. Though his stylistic range is really wide, his consistency can’t be denied. He skillfully combines Bonnie 'Prince' Billy with Ryan Adams, Wilco or Okkervil River alt-country style. Interestingly, fans of Neil Young or Nick Cave are more than likely to find a bit of something for themselves as well. Birch doesn’t lack the courage to leave the premises of guitar music and does a few experiments with electronic music, following the trail of Damien Rice or James Vincent McMorrow. What all Birch’s incarnations have in common is genuineness and authenticity, standing out from the sound environment.