LISTEN: Wild Root

Paul Fournier has always tried to spread positivity.

As a child who grew up going to church in the South, the Bradenton native says it was inevitable that the uplifting nature of the worship music he grew up with would influence his songwriting.

"The music that I've always written has always had some sort of uplifting nature to it," he says. "I think when you listen to music, a lot of it is to relate. It doesn't really matter what you talk about, as long as your intent is to leave the person better than where they were before."

As singer/guitarist for local soulful rock quartet Wild Root, Fournier says he feels lucky to be surrounded by band members who share that outlook.

He considers the band an evolving cast of members, but its current lineup includes Andrew Glasgow on bass, Damon Owens on drums and Justin Green on saxophone. Through its expressive blend of rock, soul, jazz and hip-hop influences, the group hopes its music will have an impact on listeners.

"Music is a very therapeutic and natural way to cope with problems," says Green. "I just want people to get good vibes from our music, and if I can help somebody cope, I'm all for it."

After recently recording its first EP, the quartet plans to continue finding its voice and spreading positivity.

"Everybody has the ability to shine a light," says Owens. "But to be able to shine one a little brighter, and let other people be in the light with you, that's a cool feeling."