Local Breakmen fans thrilled about upcoming concert

The Breakman will return to play on Bowen Island on Friday, February 3.

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Bowen favourites The Breakmen return to the island on Friday, February 3, to perform at Cates Hill Chapel at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available at the Cates Pharmacy, or, for those who like to live dangerously, at the door.

Susan Munro is looking forward to the concert. She said, “Bowen music fans first met the Breakmen at the 2005 Sorrento bluegrass camp. The band was newly formed, and we were so impressed with the great songs and beautiful harmonies that they shared with us. They’ve gone from strength to strength since then with three successful albums and numerous award nominations. Everyone who attended their previous shows on Bowen remembers their high energy, fantastic songwriting, and first class showmanship.” Liz Watson is another fan. She said, “I first heard The Breakmen at the Gallery here on Bowen about six years ago. It was love at first sound. Unique, indie-folk-bluegrass, energetic, lonesome and haunting, their music leaves a lasting impression and their enthusiasm is contagious. I love their songwriting and their harmonies. You just can’t listen to The Breakmen without noticing the unique blend of vocals - smooth but fearless. Best of all, they’re really great guys - genuine, personable and fun loving. I’m so excited that they’re coming back to Bowen.”

About the history of the band, Monro said, “In the early life of the band, they played the traditional bluegrass instruments of guitar, banjo, mandolin, and upright bass. Over time they’ve layered in handmade tele-caster guitars, Hammond organs, mandolins and harmonicas.”

Monro also said that The Breakmen have become a sharply focused roots music band owing as much to The Band and Blue Rodeo as to John Hartford and Bill Monroe. She added, “In late 2011, during their most recent tour, the band was creating more than ever; each spare moment was filled with spontaneous song ideas, lyrics on paper, new instruments swapping hands, inspiration, and a movement toward what they refer to as Canadiana.”