The members of experimental acoustic duo Purple Light said writing original songs is cathartic, especially when navigating personal relationships.

The band, which is influenced by genres such as southern rock and psychedelic rock, will play at Funk ‘n Waffles at 8 p.m. on Sept. 3.

Originally formed in Syracuse as a full band of four in 2018, the band soon dissolved into a duo, said lead vocalist and guitarist Jeremy Nelson. He added the band split due to each member being in different stages in their lives.

But the band dissolvement wouldn’t stop Nelson and guitarist Casey Ryan.

“I think we just had a lot to get off our chests, mainly being relationships in our lives crumbling in front of our faces,” Nelson said. “Not even specifically girlfriends, but also a lot of close friends.”

The duo produced 13 original songs in the span of two weeks, Nelson said. And with a recently solidified group, the Funk ‘n Waffles gig will serve as a comeback for the duo — their first concert since the resignation of their former members, he said.

Nelson said they think at Funk ‘n Waffles, which serves as both a restaurant and concert venue in downtown Syracuse, the audience will connect to at least one song. He added he hopes this gig will be helpful in boosting their popularity in Syracuse — especially since the band doesn’t often use social media.

Ryan said that the first gig will involve “a lot of fun.” They have their whole set planned — including covers of a slower version of Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean,” played on acoustic guitar, Nelson said.

The band’s favorite songs revolve around their favorite pop culture references or songs that relate to their lives, said Ryan. One song they look forward to playing is an acoustic inspired by Edgar Allen Poe’s short story “The Cask of Amontillado,” Ryan added. Another one of their favorite songs, called “Living Cemetery,” was inspired by Ryan’s job at a nursing home.

The other selections will consist of covers of songs produced by rapper Post Malone and rock artist Marilyn Manson, Nelson said. With a wide musical repertoire, Nelson said the band hopes to satisfy the audience’s expectations.

Audience members shouldn’t expect the set list to be “too highly energetic,” said Ryan, adding that it will have a more intimate vibe.

For those unable to come out on Sept.3, the duo is also working on producing an album consisting of the night’s setlist that will include new music and covers, the two said.

For Ryan, his music career has only given him self-assurance.

“Don’t let anyone ever tell you something different than you know or see,” said Ryan. “You’re on your own path and some people might not share that vision with you, but that’s why it’s yours.”

rbditche@syr.edu

Published on August 26, 2019 at 10:40 pm