Blues Rock Duo The Blood Brothers Set to Release “Help Yourself” This September
Mike Zito and Albert Castiglia are preparing to unleash their second collaborative effort with the announcement of “Help Yourself,” due September 19, 2025, through Gulf Coast Records.
The Saint Louis-based blues rock partnership follows up their successful debut album with what they describe as their most explosive release yet. The new record was captured at Shock City Studios in St. Louis, with the band prioritizing the live energy that has made their concerts so compelling.
“It was great to capture the band live in the studio, just like live on the stage,” Zito explained about the recording process. That approach shines through on tracks ranging from the swaggering title cut “Help Yourself” to more introspective material like “Alive.”
The latter song holds special significance for Zito, who describes it as deeply personal. “Alive is about my girl Jackie,” he revealed. “After the tremendous loss of my wife Laura, I was certain life was pretty much over, especially for love. But God had another plan and brought me this angel to make me feel alive again.”
Castiglia brings his own experiences to the album, particularly on “Can’t Be a Prophet,” which examines the contrast between life on tour and returning home. “It’s based on all of our experiences,” Castiglia said, “being treated like a King, and coming home to very little fanfare for the local guy.”
The album features the full Blood Brothers lineup with Scot Sutherland on bass, Lewis Stephens handling keyboards, and the dual-drum combination of Matt Johnson and Ray Hangen. Additional tracks include “Soulard Serenade,” “Ol’ Victrola,” and “Running Out of Time.”
The duo has been maintaining a busy touring schedule, recently sharing stages with Bill Murray and playing major venues including Red Rocks, Sony Hall, and The Ryman Auditorium. “The camaraderie comes through in every note played, I love this band!” Castiglia commented about their current momentum.
Pre-orders for “Help Yourself” are available now at www.officialgcrstore.com in digital, CD, and vinyl formats.