Bio

American Equator (out March 7th on Paradiddle Records) is a record that could only come from an artist who has weathered more than his fair share of storms. For NYC songwriter Pete Mancini, life in sobriety still has its challenges, but the satisfaction of making art with a clear mind is unparalleled. 

Early on Mancini achieved critical acclaim with his first band Butchers Blind, though he was left picking up the pieces when they split up after two albums. In 2017 he released his debut solo album Foothill Freeway, which was featured in NPR, No Depression and Newsday. His second full length album Flying First Class was released in 2019. Extensive touring followed, establishing Mancini as a national artist. Still, something didn’t feel right.

“I was still holding on to years of pent up emotions and not dealing with them in a healthy way. I needed to clear the wreckage of the past.” An intense period of reflection and self discovery painted a complex backdrop as Mancini continued pursuing his commitment to being a working musician. 

In the tumultuous summer of 2020, Mancini headed down to Dial Back Sound in Water Valley MS to begin work on his third solo album, Killing The Old Ways. Produced by Matt Patton of Drive By Truckers and Bronson Tew, the LP marked a significant artistic leap forward. “Working with Patton cast my songs in a new light, which helped them finally reach their full potential.” The collaboration resulted in Mancini’s most well-received and successful album to date.

American Equator sees Mancini reaching new heights of songwriting. He explores themes of American identity (Calamity People, American Equator), storytelling (Skid Row Skyline, Spy Rock Road, Paris Hotel, Leaving For Raleigh), spirituality (Technicolor Days, Stomping Grounds) and grief (The Signal, Sun Came Up). Recorded over a span of 5 days with Patton once again at the helm producing, Mancini has realized his most emphatic and cohesive album yet. Contributions from Jay Gonzalez (Drive By Truckers), Tim Lee, Schaefer Llana, and John Smith (Dexateens) support Mancini as he confidently treads new sonic territory. 

“It took time and effort to get to a place where I can write freely. I can’t wait to get these new songs out into the world.” Pete Mancini has learned to keep his eyes focused on the skies ahead.

Over the years, Mancini has toured with Jimmy Webb and opened for Los Lobos, Blues Traveler, Gin Blossoms, Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes, Cracker, Rhett Miller, Amy Helm, Larry Campbell & Theresa Williams, and Iain Matthews. In addition to playing guitar with Jimmy Webb, Mancini is also a member of The Famous Doctor Scanlon Band, which honors the musical legacy of Travis McKeveny.

Pete proudly uses Fishman Electronics and JangleBox Pedals.

For full discography and credits list, visit Discogs.