Gothic Theatre
J.E. Borgen
With his debut record, “outside,” released independently in 2004, Jon-Erik Borgen emerges as a refreshingly creative soul among today’s male singer, songwriters. The album’s ten original works showcase Borgen’s eclectic alternative folk-rock sound that is inspired by the music of Bob Dylan, Neil Young, The Beatles, Bob Marley, 10,000 Maniacs, Mark Knopfler, and Dave Matthews. J.E.’s songwriting eloquently draws upon his life experiences with honesty, introspection, and emotion. Through reflective lyrics and contagious melodies, “outside” truly draws widespread appeal. The music is a fresh taste of folk-groove with influences of jazz and reggae rhythms.
Born and raised in Denver, Borgen was first drawn to the musical light at age five when his mother took him to see John Denver at Red Rocks Amphitheater. Since picking up the guitar at 14, songwriting and performing have been a steady passion. Graduating from high school in Denver, Borgen headed east to college in Vermont where he played in an acoustic jug band and began exploring his creativity as a songwriter and performer. After school, he moved to Colorado Springs to work in the nonprofit sector. During spare time, Borgen set to task to write and perform at area venues like the Ancient Mariner, Wooglin’s, Acoustic Coffee Bar, and La Baguette. In the winter of 2001, after going out on the road as a guitar tech with his friends Dispatch, Borgen was inspired to pursue his passion for music on a greater level.
Recently, Borgen completed his studies at Berklee College of Music in Boston. Living in Boston, J.E. has honed his live act over the last year while piecing together a talented group of musicians to form a band that is quickly developing a steady grassroots following in the New England area and beyond. With musical roots based in folk rock, J.E. brings the influences of jazz and reggae to create a unique and uplifting groove. Supported by a stellar rhythm section of Erik Privert on bass (Berklee Grad—’01) and Dave Brophy on drums ( Manhattan School of Music—’03), the duo’s dynamic mix accentuates the poignant and penetrating vocal and guitar styles of J.E.
