Artist description We're an LA based band whose music has been compared to King's X, STP, Pearl Jam, Rage Against the Machine, etc. At times brutally straight-forward and others harmonically intricate, we are primarily concerned with writing and performing great songs.

Music Style Rock

Musical Influences King's X, Dave Matthews, Beatles, Stones,

Similar Artists Stone Temple Pilots, King's X, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, Creed,

Artist History Sweet Liberty was formed in the summer of 1997 when guitarist Michael “Sweet” Suico and bassist Jim Liberty first got together. Orphaned from their previous bands, the two jammed at the suggestion of co-workers and have been inseparable ever since. They secured the vocals of Brooks LeRossignol after seeing him blow away audiences at his solo acoustic show and then endured a Spinal Tapish search for the right drummer. That search ended with the addition of Mark Wickliffe, a tremendous all around musician who was able to add just the right vibe to the music. Their original music has been compared to Stone Temple Pilots, Rage Against the Machine (minus the rapping), early Pearl Jam and King’s X. Their long association has seen the development of an identifiable writing style that is at once recognizable but avoids repetition. However, the classification of Sweet Liberty’s music remains a little difficult. Although “alternative/ progressive/ funky/ psychedelic/ rock” might work, it seems a bit pretentious. We think it’s best left at “rock and roll” with a little description from its creators. Says Sweet, “Our music is not riff based. We work hard (although sometimes it comes easy) to compose songs that groove without being a music theory lesson.” Few could argue with his skills. While formally educated at the now defunct Dick Grove School of Music, Sweet picked up his prodigious rhythm chops playing Southland funk gigs for years. “His playing really showcases his love of everything from jazz to gospel to heavy death rock.” says Liberty. “He’s one of the few guitarists I know that can play great rhythm guitar period. But he can also make your jaw drop with his solos. Mike’s definitely a complete musician.” He ought to know. Liberty had performed over 3,000 gigs while based in Boston before he moved to Los Angeles. A road veteran and former member of high profile LA bands Vicious Circle and Head Sandwich, he brought his love of funk, soul, and rock music to the table. “What I’m proudest of in our music is our restraint. All of the guys are capable of really over playing, but we remain conscious of writing and playing for the songs.” That restraint is in evidence in drummer Mark who may be the only member with more gigs than Liberty. An endorsed musician originally from Kansas, Mark was the only drummer who not only didn’t shrink but actually blossomed when asked to lay down the grooves for Sweet Liberty. No easy task since the music incorporates funk, straight-ahead rock, soundscape textures and odd-time feels – sometimes in the same song. Those songs really came to fruition on their debut self-titled 2001 release. Recorded entirely at Liberty’s digital state of the art studio Zensho An, it is a modern representation of the old-fashioned rock songwriting craft. Their 10 song CD presents a mature sound that offers head banging delights, hooky love songs, headphone surprises, odd time grooves, and plenty of musical interaction. Tying it all together is the impressive vocal performance of former Ginger Groove front man Brooks. A deep delivery reminiscent of Dave Matthews/ Weiland/ Vedder, Brooks really came into his own and stretched lyrically and melodically for this release. In addition to being one of those guys who is blessed with a great voice, Brooks is unafraid of intelligent lyrics and ties them in seamlessly with the music. This makes for a great listen. Check out Sweet Liberty at one of our numerous LA club appearances or get the CD right here at our shopping link. You won’t be disappointed.

Group Members Brooks Le Rossignol - Lead Vocals Jim Liberty - Bass, Vocals Mike "Sweet" Suico - Guitar, Vocal Mark Widcliffe - Drums

Instruments Guitar, Bass, Drums, Vocals

Albums Self-Titled Debut

Location Van Nuys, CA - USA

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