Brian K & The Parkway was born on a Jersey boardwalk, reared in a Virginia basement, and developed on stages spanning the east coast. Veteran Washington, DC area musicians Brian K. Pagels and Stephen Russ formed the band while on a Bruce Springsteen themed pilgrimage, later adding guitarist Mike Shade. Their roots-oriented yet expansive take on Rock & Roll has been compared to The Boss himself as well as Tom Petty, John Mayer, Elvis Costello, and Drive-By Truckers. Killing The Bear, their debut album, is a musical and lyrical journey from the Gulf Shores of the American South to the Green Mountains of Vermont; from a crowded bazaar in the Middle East to drought-stricken California; from the Rock & Soul of the Jersey Shore to heartbreak in the American heartland.

Love for Brian K & The Parkway

“This is a rock band you’re gonna want to know about.”
-WSMV-TV Today In Nashville

“To play rock ‘n’ roll live is a gift granted to those who can channel the spirit that hovered over their own adolescence and provide it form with words and phrases, chords and rhythms, flanging and tremolo, chorus and delay. <Brian K & The Parkway> possess this gift.”
Americana Highways

“From upbeat anthems that had the crowd dancing to more introspective pieces that highlighted their lyrical prowess, Brian K and the Parkway proved why they are a force to be reckoned with in the music scene. Their music was delivered with precision and passion, showcasing the band’s tight musicianship and undeniable chemistry.”
Eat, Sleep, Breathe Music

“…the themes he touches on–problems and how to cope with them, detailed in striking lyrical vignettes set to expansive tunes–lend themselves to his emphatic, unhurried delivery. “Is The Grass Really Greener (In the Green Mountain State)” comes across like a lost Drive-By Truckers track circa Southern Rock Opera while invoking biblical plagues in a tale of getting the hell out of town, for better or worse.”
Jasper Magazine

“In its entirety, ‘Killing The Bear‘ serves as a testament to Brian K & The Parkway’s adeptness at seamlessly melding vintage influences with contemporary sensibilities. The result is a compelling and cohesive debut album that resonates with both nostalgia and relevance.”
Last Day Deaf

“I really hope there will be more ears on Brian Pagels and this project eventually because he is so talented, he can do so many things, and he just sounds so damn good when doing those things.”
JK Music Reviews

Love for “Wind the Clock”

Named a “Best New Track” by Unrecorded

“…a refreshing departure from the norm… this track doesn’t tiptoe into the music scene—it bursts in with a guitar riff that’s more like a siren call and a drum groove that refuses to play by the rules. Beyond the beats, it’s a social commentary on the tribal chaos we’re drowning in. It’s not just music; it’s a rebellion wrapped in hope, a middle finger to the mundane, a soundtrack for those carving paths through the noise.”
Last Day Deaf

“...really highlights this focus on songwriting and storytelling while embracing an energetic and uplifting musicality that is guitar driven, rooted in rock and roll...”
Alchemical Records

“...a light, infectious composition. The steady bass line and disco-esque 2/4 time keeping on the drums form the foundation of the arrangement. The vocals and guitar build on that foundation, blending vintage pop and disco influence with more modern pop leaning for a unique whole that is certain to keep listeners engaged and entertained.”
Mayhem Rockstar Magazine

“The biggest highlight, however, is the album’s first single, Wind the Clock. Lyrics are really solid, the sonics are full of personality, and Pagels’s singing commands you to listen.”
JK Music Reviews

Love for “Straight Through” feat. Cat Popper

“Reminiscent of The Band with a spunky roots rock meets art pop vibe, the song finds the band leaning into a sound that is reflective yet forward-thinking and fun. Popper provides playful harmonies and there is an airy vibe of positivity that permeates throughout the song.”
Glide Magazine

“A captivating indie-pop/rock song with lovely harmonies soaring effortlessly over soaring guitar riffs seamlessly intertwined with punchy drums and a bluesy vibe that together create quite a memorable listening experience packed with energy and emotion.”
Caeser Live N Loud