John Nolan

Singer/songwriter John Nolan began his musical career as the lead guitarist for Taking Back Sunday, helping to secure the band's place in the alternative rock spotlight before moving on to form Straylight Run in 2003. Guided by John's pensive, piano-driven songwriting and open, introspective lyrics, Straylight Run released its self-titled debut in 2004 on Victory Records, following up with critically-acclaimed releases Prepare to Be Wrong EP (2005), The Needles The Space (2007) and Un Mas Dos EP (2008). Straylight Run has toured alongside bands such as Motion City Soundtrack, Minus the Bear and Rooney, and their new EP, About Time, is set for release in 2009.

Between recent Straylight Run tours of the U.S. and Australia, John began directing his musical ideas and stockpiled personal recordings toward an emerging solo project. Recorded over a six-month period at his home in Lawrence, Kansas, John's solo songs reveal a strong dedication to the songwriting craft, showcasing the same musical instincts that led to the success of Taking Back Sunday and Straylight Run. The intricate arrangements and engaging melodies perfectly complement John's contemplative lyrics, which cut through subjects as diverse as new beginnings (Here I Am), loss of faith (I Won't Ever Be There) and Midwestern malaise (Screaming Into The Wind).

After assembling the basic tracks, John began working with producer Mike Sapone (Taking Back Sunday, Straylight Run, Brand New) to get a fresh perspective. Sapone's production expands the songs' vocal intimacy and harnesses their rhythmic impact to produce a dynamic, hard-hitting sound, and the songs even inspired Sapone to contribute some of his own drum tracks. The solo debut, titled Height, will be released in early fall.

In the meantime, John is looking forward to touring in support of his solo project and experimenting with creative ways of interpreting his songs for the live setting. His wife, Camille, who accompanies him on guitar and piano, joins John on stage. He also plans to incorporate his fellow touring musicians and even audience members into a constantly evolving live show. Whatever shape the live performances take on, John Nolan's solo project promises to be an exciting one, as he steps out of his traditional front man role and into the exciting possibilities of life as a solo artist.

straylight run, taking back sunday