Life has a way of reigniting the passions we thought we’d left behind, and for Vancouver singer/songwriter Michael Brennan, this rings especially true. With his introspective solo project Long Ride, Michael returns to the music world nearly two decades after stepping away from touring and recording to focus on family, entrepreneurial ventures, and recovery.

With a sound that is both emotive and intense, his debut album “The Battle of Hastings-Sunrise,” is an impressive collection of introspective tracks, blending influences from folk, garage rock, post-punk, new wave, roots, and heartland Americana. It weaves together themes of redemption, loss, addiction, and love, accompanied by Brennan’s distinctive baritone, driving guitar riffs, and dynamic arrangements.

His unexpected return to music was sparked by a chance series of events after a friend heard him perform a few cover songs. Surprised by his talent—having no idea of his musical past—they asked if he had any originals, and he shared his home-recorded demos.

Encouraged by their overwhelming enthusiasm for his songs, he brought his music to a professional studio, resulting in an album that signifies a poignant return to the art that he had once set aside. This deeply personal work is not only a powerful creative reawakening but a deep reflection of his own evolution, a testament to resilience and the unyielding drive to reclaim oneself.