artist Steve Brockley

Folk Music isn’t usually this greasy.
Born in B.C., formed in Montreal, and currently based out of a Buick wood-paneled wagon, Steve Brockley has somehow convinced Kevin Bertram (upright bass) and Leon Power (drums, mandolin) that this is a good idea. Maybe it helps that the numbers of the convinced have been growing since beginning a relentless tour schedule in March 2010 in support of their first full length album. After winning audiences over in Montreal, the musical brothership wasted no time taking it to the road.
At the root of what’s going on here are the songs; songs that other songwriters are already covering. And if you come for the songs you’ll stay for the musicianship. You’ve got a lot to choose from between Kevin Bertram’s percussive double bass swagger, Leon Power’s grunt-worthy beats and Steve Brockley’s finger picked electric guitar tactics. Perhaps the words of their peers describe this unique experience the best.

“Hypnotic songwriting, a voice to melt you from the inside out, all supported and propelled forward by a trance inducing rhythm section. And they look like guys you’d want to take home and introduce to your grandma, yet underneath this charming exterior, there is an ever so slight gun slinging badassness”
- T.Nile
“Steve and the lads make up one of the tightest trio’s I’ve ever seen, the music that comes forth is nothing less than awesome, not “that’s rad dude” awesome but the origin of the term, to hold you in pause – to inspire awe. An album and live show that hold you.”
- Gern F. of the United Steel Workers of Montreal
“Imagine if Gillian Welch married Stevie Wonder and the baby jumped out wearing cowboy boots and driving a wood-paneled station wagon named John Candy. I love these guys!”
- Miss Emily Brown

Originally from Vernon, BC, after a few years gigging and touring as a side-man on guitar, Brockley eventually made his way to Montreal on New Year’s Day 2008 to start anew as a songwriter. Fitting right into the local music scene, he soon found himself on tour as guitarist for the infamous United Steel Workers of Montreal, also having the opportunity to play some opening slots along the way. No longer able to divide his energy between two hard working acts, his solo act quickly expanded to a trio, and during a break in touring, they recorded their self-titled debut album, a nine song, live-off-the-floor, analogue jewel. After a very busy year of club dates and house shows, 2011 saw the boys being welcomed to the Canadian festival circuit playing five festivals last summer including Vancouver Island Music Fest.
Though the band’s knowledge and repertoire of traditional folk music is apparent, they’re able to take the style in new directions without making the audience feel up-rooted. You may hear John Hurt in the guitar, Hank, Townes, or Bob in the lyrics, and maybe a touch of blue-eyed soul in the voice. Add to that the slinky grooves created by Leon and Kevin, mix it together in a throw-back ride, and somehow this both is, and isn’t, your grandparents folk music.