Real Life
author: Mike Bares


When are you coming to Illinois Brian? Great music,and what a guitar player. Enjoyed every song on the cd. It's good to know there are still guitarists that can actually play lead guitar instead of power chords. Keep up the good work. It's too bad Gemini doesn't get air play in Chicago ... They don't know what they're missin'.

Brian Kahanek/Real Life
author: Jason Ishee


How come I had to here about this great musician from a video game? Brian needs to be heard on several genres of radio stations. Amazing guitar playing and song writing straight from the heart.I have just received suicide king and it's even better. I can't wait to here more instrumental music from Brian and company or pair up Brian with Nuno Mindelis for some butt kickin' texas blues. Both CD's are highly reccomended!!

Blues Rock With Soul!
author: Matthew Ruiz


Brian Kahanek and his band are an amazing bunch with so much muscial talent in them. Simply put, this is what rock 'n' roll is about: no sappy love balads or whining about your girlfriend on this CD, every track has an amazing blues guitar rock sound that has been inspired by some of the best blues rock guitarists dead or alive. If it weren't for Guitar Hero II, I probably would never have enjoyed the instrumental that is "Gemini", which shows how a real instrumental should be done. "Sign", "Real Life", and "Sold Your Soul" are some of my favoritests tracks from this album. If you want some amazing underground rock with real guitar work, if your a long time blues rock fan, or if you want to get started on listening to blues rock, this is the album to buy. Thank you Brian Kahanek, and I look forward to hearing more of your music in the future!

Simply put, Fantastic!
author: Josh


BK and his bunch have an amazing way of letting their souls come forth through their music. The riffs are catchy and the rhythm is easily heard and right on! If you like blues, you will LOVE this!

Some of the best musicianship I've ever heard!!!
author: Carmen


Real Life takes you back to the days where guitar solos, talent and passion ruled the rock world. This album will enlighten you and change the way you think and feel about music. * HIGHLY RECOMENDED TO ALL MUSICIANS, outstanding bass and drum work throughout the entire album

Versatile and Awesome
author: Karl


A great blend of energetic guitar work and moody riffs that mesh well with almost any situation. The last track, Gemini, is an excellent example of how to do an instrumental song the "Right" way.
Highly recommended.

Great versatility
author: Sean


This album showed such a range. I have enjoyed listening to every song and I will likely buy Brian's other albums as a result.

Loves it
author: Magnus


I love it, thanks to guitar hero 2 i got to know the great music of Brian Kahanek through the song Gemini, and now im hooked. This cd is the shait!

Not a "Cookie Cutter" Artist
author: Tom Jackson


If you ask me, the rock genre has split - the pumped up 'play as fast as you can' death rock, and the watered down, super mellow, sappy love song rock - and there is little left in the middle. Brian Kahanek is one of those few that has stuck to the real heart of rock. He's got real guitar talent. He's not a self-absorbed virtuoso, but he can really play. If you're looking for something out of the mainstream groove, or if you just want something good to listen to, check this guy out.

Awesome CD, the man can play!
author: Phil


Bought the CD for Gemini (which is an amazing tune), but had no idea the rest of the CD was so great.  Technically incredible and excellent writing.

Musical Bliss
author: Josh Norton


What is great about this CD is the fact that Brian Kahanek puts a lot of soul into each of his songs - I mean masterpieces. Anyway this is a must buy for anyone stuck in the 70's or anyone who just likes pretty sounds. 5 Stars.

Sold My Soul
author: ~Me


Sold Your Soul was exactly what I had done the first time I heard this song! Brian has hooked ~Me from the start with his guitar playing and cool laid-back personaity. My favorites are Sold Your Soul, Signs and Real Life.

This water runs deep.
author: Austin


A buddy loaned me Brian's Disc and I had to get it.  He can tear a house down with one note and the next minute he is making you reflect on your life.  This guy is so much more that a guitar player... he is a real artist with real vision and something to say.  Do yourself a favor and give this disc a close listen and you will find yourself floating away on the layers he so effortlessly weaves.  If his 2nd disc is as good or better than this -- LOOK OUT FOLKS!!!! cause we got the next big deal.

Nice to see a new Artist with real talent! A real guitar lovers treat
author: Ken


I've always loved great, classic rock guitar that isn't the  punk/thrash metal crap that anyone can play. It is nice to see an upcoming artist that can really play. Brian's music has real melody and is a great fusion of classic rock and blues with a little Texas flare thrown in. His guitar playing is a treat to listen to!

I can dig it
author: Stew


Real Life was a great purchase from CD Baby, disc showed up right on time in great condition and I have really enjoyed it.  Anyone familiar with the Freddy Jones band would love Brian Kahanek's disk, bluesy rock with great lyrics.  Unfortunately I can only survive "Gemini" on the Medium level on Guitar Hero 2, which is also where I became hooked.

Finally the next big thing!!!
author: Steph


This CD will inspire you to listen time and time again.  BK is what the world has been waiting for.  It is only a matter of time until he single handedly brings back the real guitar hero in the spirit of Clapton /Hendrix or SRV.
I can't wait for the next CD!

WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
author: big al


Like everyone else i heard Gemini on Guitar Hero 2.I was instantly hooked on that song.I browsed the internet and found his website and went to Urge and found the whole c.d to listen to.Now I have to buy this one.It is so amazing.Real Life,Sold Your Soul are great but the best  is Little Things.Cant get enough of that song.The Lyrics and Guitar rock on that song.Thank you Brian for a great album.cant wait for the next one.

EXCELLENT !!!!!
author: DON


My Nephew got Guitar Hero 2 for Christmas. I spent about two hours playing it with him. When he picked Gemini to jam with, I was instantly hooked. The next day I went online and found it was available from CD baby. The more I play this album, the more I like it. I love blues and classic rock. This album has a Texas flavor to it, like Doyle Bramhall II and Storyville, but with more rock. I've loaned it to my friends and they all say its the best album they've heard in awhile. Thanks Brian and CD baby! Can't wait for the next one.

Amazing.
author: Derek


This cd is amazing in every sense of the term.  Brian Kahanek's blend of many different styles, mainly blues, makes for a very soothing and entertaining listen.  Notable tracks in my opinion are Tomorrow, Little Things, and Gemini.  Those are just my favorites, though.  I can honestly say that I love every single track on this cd.  This cd will inspire your love in music.  Keep on rockin' Mr. Kahanek!

you need to buy this cd
author: socrstopr


I heard Gemini in Guitar Hero 2, and I decided I needed to buy this CD.
I was right. BK kicks ass, and there are tons of great little riffs that make you wanna whip out your air guitar and jam along. 5/5 for sure :-)

It's good to see good music can still be made now adays.
author: Andrew


BK definately came out of nowhere to me. Being an avid guitar hero fan, Gemini was not the kind of song I expected on the metal oriented Guitar hero II, but I'm so glad they decided to include BK's little jam on the game. This CD is awsome, Sold Your Soul is by far my favorite song(even more than gemini). The CD has many sweet tracks with plenty of kick ass riffs and BK's playing style reminds me of all the music I love listening to, which has been around for about 20-30 years, it's nice to see someone with some good taste and not giving into the current trends of music which I despise. Rock on BK, rock on.

Real Music with Real Talent.
author: Deb


I got my son the Guitar Hero 2 video game and I liked Gemini the best out of all the songs I heard him playing.  I just had to buy the CD.  I LOVE THIS MUSIC!!!  I am so glad I found it!!!  Brian Goes against everything the music biz has become - He makes Real Music with Real Talent.

A shot across the bow!
author: D Williams


Wake-up guitar world ... There is a new sheriff in town!!
Do yourself a favor, buy this CD.

Simply marvelous music
author: Lucas Longley


You heard it from me first - one day, Brian Kahanek will be the next big thing in music, and he deserves it 100%.  This CD was a simply amazing collection of heartfelt music played magnificently.  I can't recommend this CD enough.

Wow!
author: JT


Ordered this from a referral.  My Buddy told to get hip to Brian as he is right up my alley.  Well my friend is right!!!What a great disc.  What I love most is that the songs are not in the back seat.  The lyrics really have many levels and totally compliment the AMAZING!! guitar work.
"Little Things" and "Sold Your Soul" are my favs today!.  I have only had the disc a week and I have listened to it everyday. I am telling everyone about Brian and can't wait for the next release.

Way to go, Brian!
author: Crews


I had the privilege of being the drummer in Brian's high school band.  I knew he had a special talent even then.  He was light-years ahead of the rest of us.  Now I find out he can sing!  Damn Brian!  What did we need Phil for anyway? Good job, man.  All the best to ya.  Into the Fire!

What a great CD!
author: Jerrod


Some of the CDs out there sound homemade or have some glaring flaw.  Not this one!  Just good songs, great guitar playing, and good vocals.  When's the next release?

Sweet Jesus this guy can play.
author: Mike Hollings


What is really cool about this Disc is that you don't really understand how good Brian is until about the 3rd listen.  He just has the ability to caress you ears with the guitar but you figure out that the songs and vocals are just as important to him.  Who knows if there can ever be another Hendrix or Clapton.  If given the chance I have no doubt Brian could reach for the stars so this CD gets 5 stars.
Check out Sold Your Soul and Little Things.

A bold and dramatic statement from a rare talent
author: Chris Richmond


This CD has it all, songs, depth, and great performances by all involved.  Kahanek brings you in with his lilting voice and then sends you sailing with his guitar.  You can just tell that he is giving you all he has (Which seems endless) and is playing from the bottom of his heart.  Without pretense song after song (Check out "Little Things") you really get a sense of who this guy is by the sheer honesty of his approach.  This CD for has been a once in a Blue Moon find from a rare talent. I hope the rest of the world finds out about him.  Highly recommended!

author: Steve Grom


I can’t tell you how long it has been since I got a CD of new music that I have enjoyed so much. Real Life has some wonderful song writing that you really start to appreciate after several listens. Great vocals, Great guitar sounds and playing with great energy from all the players. Too many recordings these days are lacking the group energy and vibe, but this one has it.  I’d love to see material like yours get out to the world and be successful.  You are a very talented guy and lots of people deserve to hear your music.

author: Jason Warburg and "The Daily Vault."


This is one of those discs that needed to play in the background a couple of times before it clicked with me. But when it did… pow.

Solid blues-rock with just a hint of Texas twang (Kahanek is a Dallas native transplanted to LA), Real Life at first struck me as more workmanlike than spectacular. I dug the sincerity behind the music, but didn't find the groove right off. And then about the second or third time through, I stopped what I was doing and paid full attention as Kahanek -- a decent singer, but an outstanding guitar player -- lit into the solo on the slow-building third track "Little Things" (perhaps a semi-conscious nod to Hendrix's "Little Wing")... and knocked me on my ass. As my son likes to say, oh damn! This boy can flat-out play.
 
And so he does. Whether on funked-up blues numbers like the opening "Sign," lilting Southern roots-rock like "Love Deluxe," thoughtful midtempo cuts like "Tomorrow," or stinging instrumentals like the closing jam "Gemini," Kahanek lets loose with one vivid demonstration after another of the pure joy of playing the electric guitar as if your life depended on it. When I dream about playing guitar (can't play a lick, folks), I dream about being able to do it with this much passion and fluidity and innate melodic sense.
 
I have to say that the vocal side of Real Life wasn't a big focus for this listener. While I didn't find Kahanek's vocals especially appealing, what they might lack in polish he makes up for with commitment, giving an honest hundred percent to every one of these songs. Plus, his lyrics have an emotional intensity that's perfectly in sync with the passion he pours into his playing.
 
It's hard to imagine this disc finding a mass audience -- realistically speaking, today's mainstream music scene doesn't even make room for 10-second solos in a four-minute song. But for aficionados of rootsy blues-rock that lets the lead guitarist stretch out a bit a la vintage Stevie Ray Vaughan or Eric Clapton, this album might be the sweetest find you stumble across all year. Be sure to check it out!

Kahanek Kicks!
author: Marzipana


Sweet tunes, nice clean production work, lots of intricate guitar sounds going on-really nice! I really loved this CD before it was a third of the way over. BK and his band can kick it out and then pull it back for those soulful moments. This CD is worth the spend. (And that redhead is damn cute!)

There is real joy in these blues; it it full of real emotion and great music.
author: Ben Hoppe


This collection of songs shows just how great music born of emotion and then crafted by a loving hand can sound. Through the variety of styles, there are several constants: honesty, craftsmanship, and raw guitar virtuosity.

awesome !!!!!
author: gus borner


great stuff !  amazing guitar performances and great songs !

surprising
author: alex rebar


i'm really more into jazz but on the spur of the moment I sometimes grab an unknown from a different genre so I nabbed this Real Life cd and it blew me away. For one thing I could actually understand the lyrics which I thought were, at least, meaningful, creative and made sense. The guitar work is way above average in my book. All in all it was a good pick. Everytime I go out of my preferred arena I'm usually disappointed. This was a very welcome surprise.

Brian rocks. Not often you hear pure, raw rock guitar these days.
author: Dan Coplan


This CD is refreshing in its pure, raw feel. It's very real and down to earth compared to all the processed and glitzy fly-by-night music you hear. It's great to listen to and easier to relate to.

Awesome! Great musician!
author: Lee Bradley


I very much enjoy all the music Brian Kahanek has ever produced. His guitar work is flawless! A true master of his art. He is incredible to see live. He can tear it up for days...weeks...infinity even!

Outstanding music.  A breath of fresh air compared to all else!
author: Adam Lashbrook


This CD is a heartfelt expression of soulful music.  You can tell that a lot of care went into producing this work of art.  Truly this album has the potential to usher in a new sound for the radiowaves.

Anybody hungry???
author: Nelson Hill


Brian Kahanek & Band put all the cards on the table with this release.  You get songs, groove, musicianship and guitar virtuosity that makes lesser musicians weep.  The songs are the potatoes, basic but the substance of the meal.  The groove is the meat, sometimes tender, sometimes tough, and the guitar playing is the sauce man...and the sauce is Texas Hot!!!  Awesome tones... they are so good it makes you wanna jump up and slap your mama!
I enjoyed the variety of vocal tones too...Brian manages to whisper softness in a way that reminds of another great Texan, Cristopher Cross, and then he beefs it up to reveal his own true sound. Check out the tune Sold your Soul and you'll hear the influence of Hendrix, SRV and other 6 string warriors. Lovin' it...I have no doubt that this is an act to catch live, and I intend to do it very soon!  My favorite has to be the song Little Things...but I change my mind everytime I hear the CD...all the songs are great!

author: Neil Patterson

These guys are first class.  Everything blends well together.  Their tunes are smooth, everything, the guitar, the bass, the drums, the vocals, all complement each other.  I am surprised their music isn’t playing across America; they definitely have the skills to play with any of the top bands out there today.  Brian and crew are top notch and this is a must have CD for anyone who enjoys rock the way it should be played!

A total breath of fresh air.
author: Corky Newman


As a cdbaby member (Caligator), I was told of this great CD on a guitar forum and just had to buy it with out a listen. Man I just love it. Great recording and killer chops. The songs grab ya by the neck and shake ya to wake up to what great rock music should sound like...Awesome job Brian.

Killer organic rock, gutsy vocals
author: Scott D. Peterson


I bought this CD based on the clips here, and man what a great CD. I buy lots of CD's; this one stands way out. The tones and playing are fantastic. The lyrics are well done and the vocals are delievered with guts and sincerity.

I intended to get this cd and dig the guitar tones; that's my bag. I ended up with the best CD I have bought in years. The writing, playing, arrangments and procuction are utterly first class. Highly recommended.