Biography

Frightened Cellar is a Brooklyn based narrative melodic piano punk artist. The classically trained pianist’s influences are varied and diverse. He has stated that his style has been influenced by Tom Waits, Ludwig van Beethoven, Kate Bush, Nick Cave, Richard Wagner, Nina Simone, Art Tatum, Janis Joplin, Leonard Cohen, The Beach Boys and David Bowie.

Born in rural Iowa, Frightened moved to New York City in 2004 with two suitcases and a few dollars to pursue a career in music. After only a few short months in NYC, he had performed at several high profile venues including CBGB’s and The Knitting Factory and was signed to an independent record label. He parted ways with the now defunct record label and eventually he made the decision to go DIY.

In 2009 he took a year long hiatus from the city. He returned to his roots in the countryside, but on the other side of the world. He moved to rural Japan to study traditional Japanese culture and music. While in Japan he met shinobue player Kazunari Abe. The two formed the band Sora Ocean, recorded an album and toured the country. Their debut album “88” is now available through all major digital download retailers.

Frightened Cellar recently completed work on his debut solo album “Destroy The Fear That Forms You”. The project was funded by his fans and was recorded at the Metropolitan Opera House, The Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church and at his home studios in Brooklyn and Japan. The album was mixed by Marcel Van Limbeek (Tori Amos, Johnny Cash, Damien Rice) and will be available worldwide on August 16th, 2011.