🖤 She Beat Cancer. He Wrote This Song. LA Rock Band “i” Drops Their Most Personal Track Yet🖤
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Los Angeles alternative rock band i return with “Often,” a deeply personal and emotionally charged single that blends grunge grit with heartfelt vulnerability. Drawing from the melodic melancholy of Alice in Chains, the emotional storytelling of Counting Crows, and the raw sincerity of Pearl Jam, “Often” stands as one of the band’s most authentic releases to date.
Originally written as a poem for his wife, vocalist Al never intended for “Often” to become a full band recording. “I originally wrote Often as a poem for my wife,” Al explains. “But when the muse sent me the melody, I sent over what I had to Paul, who then wrote the music.” What began as a private love letter evolved into a powerful alternative rock ballad rooted in devotion, resilience, and survival.
The song took on even deeper meaning in 2021, when Al’s wife was diagnosed with pheochromocytoma, a rare adrenal gland cancer. After a difficult two-year battle and recovery, the band knew it was time to properly record and release “Often,” not just as a love song, but as a testament to strength through darkness.
Musically, “Often” showcases i’s eclectic influences. Clean, emotive verses bloom into soaring choruses, layered with textured guitars and a warm, analog-inspired atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and immediate. The lyrics balance simplicity and depth:
“My angel has no wings
My angel loves to sing
My angel laughs out loud
Often”
The repetition of “Often” becomes a quiet mantra, a reminder of presence, gratitude, and love in the face of uncertainty. Lines like “An angel in my hell / Forgave me when I fell” ground the song in raw humanity, embracing imperfection and redemption.
The track was previously performed during the band’s Día de Los Muertos livestream concert during COVID, but it never fit alongside their heavier live material, until now. As guitarist Paul puts it, “It’s a love song, but aren’t they all?”
With “Often,” i step beyond genre and into something timeless, a grunge-tinged rock ballad born from real life, real struggle, and real love.
For fans of 90s alternative rock, emotional rock ballads, and honest songwriting, “Often” is a reminder that sometimes the most powerful songs are the ones written quietly, for one person, and then shared with the world.
Please add OFTEN to your Playlist on:
APPLE, AMAZON, DEEZER, TIDAL, YOUTUBE MUSIC, SPOTIFY
& all other digital platforms!
RADIO to download the MP3 click HERE
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Biography
Formed in the early '90s by Paul and Al, i is an LA-based rock band that has carved their own distinctive path in the music scene. After a hiatus, the band experienced a revitalization in 2016 when David joined forces with Paul to complete the group's lineup, injecting new energy and creativity into their sound. The talented members of i include: Al Granados: A charismatic frontman whose vocals carry raw emotion and captivating storytelling. Paul Lerma: A skilled guitarist whose riffs and melodies intertwine seamlessly, adding depth and texture to the band's music. Paul Reyes: A versatile bassist who lays down solid grooves, anchoring the songs with a powerful low end. David Contreras: A dynamic drummer who drives the band's rhythm with precision and intensity, propelling their sound forward. Drawing inspiration from a diverse range of artists such as Black Sabbath, Pink Floyd, and Marcel Duchamp, i has crafted a unique sonic identity that incorporates elements of grunge, a genre that dominated the '90s music scene. Their music carries a nostalgic essence reminiscent of the raw and introspective sound that characterized the era, combined with their own artistic sensibilities and contemporary influences. i is known for their introspective and thought-provoking lyrics, exploring themes of personal struggle, introspection, and social commentary. Their songs resonate with authenticity, capturing the essence of the human experience and inviting listeners to connect on a deeper level. Driven by their unwavering passion for music, I continues to write, record, and perform their original compositions, pushing boundaries and evolving their sound with each new creation. Their live performances are a testament to their dedication and musicianship, as they deliver powerful and engaging shows that leave audiences captivated and craving more. In a world where music is constantly evolving, I stands out as a band that pays homage to the '90s grunge era while infusing their own unique artistry, forging a path that is distinctly their own. With their heartfelt lyrics, infectious melodies, and captivating performances, I has earned a devoted following and continues to leave a lasting impact on the rock music landscape.
i band is:
Al Granados - Vocals
Paul Lerma - Guitar
Paul Reyes - Bass
David Contreras - Drums
-PREVIOUS RELEASES INCLUDE-
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