A Chat with Alex Kilroy (26.06.26)
Born in Transylvania but destined for the American blues tradition, Alex Kilroy is a soulful guitarist and singer-songwriter whose lifelong pursuit of musical freedom has taken him across the globe. After performing in a Stevie Ray Vaughan tribute band as a teenager, Kilroy found himself in various bands, but it is his solo project that draws our attention. We speak with the US-based Kilroy about his album, Break My Chains, what music means to him, future plans and much more.
OSR: I read that you grew up in a musical family, with your father being a guitarist and manager. I also read about his passing – my condolences. So, do you think your father and growing up in that creative environment influenced you as a musician and how? Does it continue to influence you today?
Kilroy: Growing up in a musical family set the tone for my life. I was constantly surrounded by music, instruments, cables, guitar pedals, and amplifiers. My aunt, uncle, and cousin had their own family band, so every family gathering inevitably turned into a jam session. That was undoubtedly the foundation of my musical career, and it will always hold a special place in my heart.
OSR: Your press release mentions you playing as part of a Stevie Ray Vaughan tribute band. What was it like performing in a band as compared to being a solo artist? What are the pros and cons of each, and which do you prefer?
Kilroy: The Stevie Ray Vaughan Tribute Band era was an incredibly enjoyable time. I was 14, and my best friend Mihai, who was also 14, was the bassist. The drummer was only 9 years old. We had an amazing time playing blues festivals, opening for artists like Lucky Peterson and AG Weinberger, and touring Europe.
Nowadays, I still play with a band called On1 Band. I met these incredible musicians when I moved to Orlando. We got together, and I presented them with a song I had written. As soon as we started playing, I knew that this was the band that could bring my vision to life. We have great chemistry.
I’ve also played some shows just me with an acoustic guitar. It’s a very personal experience between me and the crowd, but it can get lonely. I definitely prefer playing with my band and feeding off each other’s energy.
OSR: You recently released your debut album, Break My Chains. What can you tell us about it? Is there a particular backstory or theme?
Kilroy: The album’s theme revolves around embracing and recognizing our unique voices within ourselves. Over the years, I’ve been a sideman for various artists, absorbing and incorporating diverse playing styles from legendary musicians. Now, I’ve woven these influences together with my own life experiences, resulting in the creation of Break My Chains. The album comprises twelve tracks, including a rendition of the iconic ‘Midnight Rider’ by The Allman Brothers Band.
OSR: What does music mean to you?
Kilroy: Music, the language of the soul, transcends the boundaries of human experience. We may speak different languages, hail from diverse origins, and hold varying beliefs, yet music unites us all. It serves as the foundation block of the universe, with melody and rhythm as its essential components.
OSR: What do you hope people take from Break My Chains, and what does the album mean to you?
Kilroy: I’m simply presenting my perspective to the world, and people will interpret it in their own way. This album holds great significance for me as it’s my debut, but at its core, it’s a snapshot of my journey through space and time, encapsulating all the experiences and lessons I’ve acquired up until the point of its recording.
OSR: If you were to introduce a new listener to your music, which of your songs would you recommend?
Kilroy: ‘Break My Chains’ would be my choice. It sets the tone for the entire album in terms of texture, theme, and overall vibe. I believe it’s a great representation of the album as a whole.
OSR: I know most artists wouldn’t change their albums, but if you could change anything about Break My Chains, what would it be?
Kilroy: I read the book Creative Act by Rick Rubin, and it was an incredibly inspiring experience. Rick emphasizes that when you create, record, and perform your craft, do so as an offering to God, to the best of your ability. That’s exactly what we did here. I’m very pleased with the results, although, like any project, there were some setbacks and minor issues along the way. I wouldn’t change a thing.
OSR: Live performances are important and can be transformative. What is your most memorable gig to date, and why that one?
Kilroy: Live performances are my absolute favorite. There’s nothing quite like the thrill of performing your songs live for an audience and feeling the electric energy exchange. The first memorable gig moment that came to mind when I read the question was when I performed at Buddy Guy’s Legends in Chicago. It was my first time performing in the United States.
OSR: What can we expect from you in the future?
Kilroy: I’m gearing up for a tour with my band, so you might spot me around the neighborhood a few times. Additionally, I’ve begun writing songs for my next album.
OSR: Do you have a message for our readers?
Kilroy: Thank you for reading, thank you for your support. Remember to be in the present moment and cover the whole world with love.
Many thanks to Alex Kilroy for speaking with us. Find out more about Alex Kilroy on his official website, Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was sent to us by Prospect PR.
