artist The Mutes

        The Mutes are a two man instrumental band from the Ottawa region. Rick Caines, who hails from Newfoundland and Ottawa's own Chris Briault, are the men who make The Mutes. Both play mandolin and guitar and are known for randomly switching instruments on stage. The music is original and eclectic in the way the sound changes from song to song, working with an eight string mandolin and a twelve string guitar they bring their music to life in a vibrant display of what twenty strings can really do.

       Formed in 2006 the Mutes first show was a charity fundraiser at Heritage Cegep in Gatineau. After frequenting pretty much every open-mic in Ottawa for the next year, they started playing several local art shows at the Mercury Lounge in the byward market, then eventually played there own charity fundraiser for the Make a Wish Foundation there. They played at the Glue Pot Pub last Canada day and recently appeared on CKCU 93.1, where they did an hour long radio broadcast and interview.

     The Mutes have independently produced an album, entitled The Day The Silence Was Heard. Working in there own home studio with minimal equipment they recorded, produced and manufactured this album all on there own. They have invested everything they have into there band and have hit many bumps in the road, but with hard work and dedication it's only a matter of time before they get there big break.