Pittsburgh’s Abstract Theory has grown. The jazzy hip-hop project from Louie Petrone is now a fully-functioning live band with a new album on the way. Their new song, “Caught In The Deep,” is an agonizing journey through unrequited love.
Louie recently spoke with WYEP's Joey Spehar.
What’s your musical history up to this point?
Abstract Theory started in 2015 where I had the opportunity to open for The Chainsmokers. A few months later, Troy Reeves joined the group. In 2018, we released a mixtape called "Wasted Youth." Following the release of the mixtape in 2019 we toured with KRS One in the Netherlands.
In 2020, Troy Reeves decided to part ways, and the group went down to just me. After Troy left, I began writing and recording the album "PULP" that was released in 2023. While writing and recording the album I started gathering some of the best musicians in the city (Remy Vega, Alex Lichtenfels, Alex Perez, Eli Alfieri, Matt Calvetti & Jordan Bosland) to make Abstract Theory a full live band. Throughout 2022-2024 we started performing together and recording a live studio album, "Making Your Way Through Obscurity," which is the album where the song "Caught In The Deep" will live.
How do you describe your sound?
Jazz hip-hop
Tell us more about the song "Caught In The Deep." What inspired you to write it and what does it mean to you?
It was a hard song to write. It's about being in love while the other person is falling out of love with you, and always wanting just more time with them.
What was the first album that really changed your life?
Nirvana — Nevermind & Freddie Hubbard — Keeping Your Soul Together
Who are some other Pittsburgh artists you think more people should listen to?
Julian Atwater, Yak The Atlas, Back Alley Sound, Dream The Heavy, Young Guy Burkett, Wild Blue Yonder, The Moat Rats, Sierra Sellers, Zinnia's Garden, Matt Calvetti Trio, Ames Harding & The Mirage, Dopamine, NLS Ron...so many, many more.
Any other super interesting things about you we should know?
I'm also a Pittsburgh-based comedian! I just started the monthly "SLAM COMEDY SERIES SHOWCASE" (next one at Studio 4 in Bloomfield on Feb. 15). I film music videos for myself and other musicians, and I'm writing a comedy TV show.
Band Members:
Louie Petrone – Vocals
Remy Vega – Keys
Alex Perez – Trumpet
Alex Lichtenfels – Keys
Eli Alfieri – Bass
Jordan Bosland – Drums
Matt Calvetti - Guitar
Added Extras (WHEN MAIN PEOPLE CAN’T MAKE IT):
Owen Dougan-Bacha – Keys
Dom Brazzle – Bass
Jonah Hanlon - Trumpet
