One of the things I always think about music made in Canada
is that it has a very definite sense of place to it - I’ve noticed this with
folk artists, electro-rock bands and everything in between. I can’t even articulate that properly, or
quite put my finger on what it is – the word “cinematic” comes close. Maybe
it’s a product of the fact that it’s not exactly a country where bands rush to
tour, or possibly just because parts of Canada are so quiet and serene. It
might be that it’s “just me”, and that I picture it as this far away (and maple
syrup filled) Disney Land of tranquillity, but there’s definitely a sense of
both refuge and distance in the sound that a lot of musicians that spend time
over there produce.
To me, the Barr Brothers self-titled debut epitomises that
spirit. “The Barr Brothers” was released in 2011 but it seems to be only now
that it’s getting a lot of attention here in the UK, with recent radio plays
from Lauren Laverne and rave reviews for their shows all over Canada and the
States this summer.
Andrew and Brad Barr grew up in Rhode Island, count rock and
roll as a big influence, and as kids they put all of their rage, energy and
passion into intense boxing matches with each other – now, they channel it into
music.
They moved to Montreal in 2005 and began this project,
picking up harpist Sarah Page along the way, who Brad met when he overheard her
playing through the shared wall of their neighbouring apartments. With the
bringing in of their friend Andres Vial to play keyboards, bass, percussion and
sing back-up vocals, quarter that is The Barr Brothers was assembled.
The album itself is gorgeous, folky without confining itself
to one particular genre – it’s full of different sounds and moods and textures,
from the serene and gentle “Beggar In The Morning” to songs with slightly rougher edges, like bluesy “Lord I
Just Can’t Keep From Crying”.
They’re about to embark on a six city UK tour, kicking off
tomorrow night at the Borderline, London, and will also be playing at the End
of the Road Festival this Sunday. You can find out more on their website.
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