Richrath Project 3:13 Pays Tribute To Late/Great Original REO Speedwagon Guitarist, Gary Richrath, With New Album – ‘L.A. Is Mine’

Guitarist Gary Richrath was an integral part of classic rockers REO Speedwagon – as his soaring guitar lines helped propel such classics as “Take It on the Run,” “Golden Country,” and “Ridin’ the Storm Out.” While Gary is sadly no longer with us (having passed away in 2015) his music continues to live on as part of Richrath ProjecT 3:13, and a brand new album, L.A. Is Mine.  The album is set for its worldwide release on Friday, August 6th, 2021 via Dark Star/Sony/Orchard/UMG, and the album’s lead-off single/video, “Help Me Save Me from Myself”.

The band’s singer/guitarist, Michael Jahnz, explains the song’s creation. “Written by Gary Richrath, I added my own personality to the song in the arrangement. This is a song that Gary and I worked on and ultimately recorded demos of, in my studio here in the Milwaukee area. My current sound engineer was able to isolate Gary’s guitar tracks from our demos all those years ago and my current band rounded out the recording of ‘Help Me Save Me from Myself.’ With myself singing lead and Gary’s original background vocals added from our demo, I added many different harmonies with my new background vocals to really give it a great sound, the results of which I’m really proud of.”

“Gary never really told me the story behind his lyrics.” Many can speculate. For me, the song can portray anyone who feels their demons, whatever they may be, drinking, drugs, depression, overeating, gambling, are something they need saving from. The person, is reaching out for someone to hold them, care about them and save them from the things that are out of control in their lives. The video however starts off with a sad, desperate, even angry kind of mood, working through trying to get rid of their vices and ultimately coming out the other side with friendship, family, hugs and love. The bright light at the end of the tunnel. The creativity and the amazing visual locations provided the perfect backdrop for this video. I think it serves as a powerful message for people struggling with all sorts of issues and emotions. I truly hope it’ll strike a chord with people and give them a sense of hope.”