Nick Marzock’s life has been full of ups and downs in the past year, an experience he doesn’t shy away from on his first studio album, Lead Me Home—named for his favorite track.

“I really think it just represents what the whole nature of the disc is about,” he said.

A 21-year-old college senior at Duquesne University, Marzock describes the CD’s original 11 tunes as similar to the style of Dave Matthews or John Mayer—but a little more rock and roll. 

“The drive is a little heavier, but it's still pretty easy listening,” he said. “A lot of groove went into it. It really just makes you move your head on some of the tracks.”

Recorded at Red Caimen Media in Pittsburgh and released in January, Lead Me Home features Preach Freedom, of Rusted Root fame, on the drums and members of the Pittsburgh Symphony playing the strings. Marzock said working with the other musicians, particularly Preach Freedom—who hails from Jamaica—was nothing short of awe-inspiring.

“He came in and he was really into the music,” Marzock said of working with the Rusted Root veteran. “It was cool to hear him play world instruments. It was unreal listening to him.”

Fans of Marzock will be able to catch him in person this weekend. The Cranberry native and Seneca Valley alum will play from 7-9 tonight at Club Café on Pittsburgh’s South Side. 

“This is my first appearance down at Club Cafe, so I’m really excited about it,” he said.

Last weekend, Marzock rocked the stage at Jergel’s Rhythm Grill in Warrendale as the opening act for Pittsburgh band Good Brother Earl. He also has upcoming shows at the Hard Rock Café in Station Square and appearances this summer at Seven Springs.

Since the release of Lead Me Home, Marzock said he has steadily been picking up gigs. Although he graduates in May with a degree in chain supply management, Marzock said he plans to follow his first love upon commencement—music.

“I’m excited about it,” he said. “I’m going to pursue music for a few years.”

Have you heard Nick Marzock sing and play the guitar yet? To listen to Marzock’s cover of Adele’s "Rolling in the Deep" performed at Jergel’s last weekend, click on the video.