The definition of Regal, according to Merriam-Webster is: “relating to, or suitable for a king.” Also: “of notable excellence or magnificence.” If you like to royally rock your country, you’ve come to the right place. Here, you will discover the New England band Regals, my Local Catch of the Week.

This band of 5 musicians from New Hampshire and Maine first came together while the country was shutdown during the pandemic. They all share a love of alternative rock and Americana country music. Regals have no connection to kings, that they shared with me, but these dudes are princes of musical distinction. There sound is unique, and that’s a rarity.

New England Band Regals New Release Digs Deep

Lead singer Ryan Rock Egan’s rough and raspy vocals are remarkably delivered with equal passion and passivity. I don’t know how he does it, but he does it. Imagine if Bruce Springsteen and Dylan had a baby, that’s the vocal vibe here. It’s truly unique. There’s a folk-rock fabulousness to their new release, “Fresh Pack.” You can listen to it, before it’s even released. Check it out below.

The New England band Regals’ new song is a powerful testament of compassion for those dealing with addiction of any kind. It’s a dark, deep dive into a world where substances and vices overcome strength of spirit and common sense. As dire as the subject matter can be, the song brings a slight sense of lightness through understanding.

Regals’ music and story are here so you can get to know the musicians and songwriters better. Find out where they are performing and where to find them on social media. This is how you can support our New England artists.

The Music
“FRESH PACK”

Ryan Rock Egan from Regals says, “Fresh Pack is a country rock anthem focused on the weight of life and the struggle it brings to resist the daily temptations towards whatever vices you may have.” He went on to explain the meaning behind the title; “Fresh pack is the variable for whatever vice is needed when you know you’re going to take that wrong turn in the night. Because what’s a night of drinking without a fresh pack of smokes?”

Listen before it’s officially released to all streaming platforms May 10.
The Story
Name: Regals

Band members: Ryan Rock Egan (Vocals/Guitar), Chris J Brown (Lead Guitar), Sean Merkle (Drums), Mike Vinci (Bass Guitar), Lucas Troy (Pedal Steel)

From: Manchester, NH / Portland, ME

Current single: New Single “Fresh Pack” & previously released EP “Skull in the Sky”

How did you first come together: Regals came together during the pandemic after longtime collaborators, Ryan and Merkle started writing songs again. Soon after they brought in Chris to the mix. After some years of shifting members Regals has come together with the current five-piece lineup they have today.

How did you get your name: It kind of just happened, but in retrospect I found it ironic that despite our band name being “Regals” all of us live pay check to pay check.

How would you describe your sound: The Regals sound could be described as Alternative Rock with a Country/Americana vibe.

Who inspires you: Some big inspirations for me in my songwriting are Gram Parsons, Lou Reed, Townes Van Zandt, The Replacements, Deer Tick, Lucinda Williams, Lucero, Wilco

Name a favorite country song: Overtime – Lucinda Williams

Day jobs: Server/Bartender (Ryan), Forklift Operator (Chris), Truck Driver (Sean), Healthcare (Mike), Teacher (Luke)

Most proud moment or moments: Whenever anyone sings or dances with us I feel good. That’s all that matters.

Crazy thing that happened in your music career: Mostly just cool, but I (Ryan) one time performed in front of Stephen Stills at TT The Bear’s in Somerville
The Shows
June 15: The Shaskeen Pub in Manchester, NH
The Social Network
Bes sure to follow Regals on social media to keep up with new music, shows and more.
Pics and Posts

@regalsband
New song from regals coming soon. Follow us on instagram for more. @_regals ⬅️⬅️⬅️ #regals #newsong #singer #altcountry #alternative #country #freshpack #fyp #foryou #foryoupage
♬ original sound - regals

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Every week, Kruser’s Local Catch highlights New England’s homegrown country music talent, and tells you where to catch them locally and in Nashville. Click here to view previous catches.

*Singer/Songwriters With Original Music: Please Submit For Consideration On The Local Catch By Emailing: [email protected]