REVIEWS
STORY: JON SQUIRES // PHOTO: NICOLE ASHLEY
In the province so devoted to the cult of Nickelback, it is refreshing to experience music of a different genre performed by talented and passionate musicians. Local bands F&M and Captain Tractor pulled off a show on May 13 that was indeed refreshing. The show opened with F&M, a local, internationally touring folk rock band fronted by Ryan and Rebecca Anderson. I’ve seen a wide variety of opening acts over the years, both as a spectator and musician, and it is not uncommon for me to wish I had stayed home until the main act. But this was not one of those times. F&M combined great musicianship with haunting, beautiful melodies, and a unique stage presence, making for a show that was soothing yet captivating. Equally as delightful as
Although every musician on stage held his own behind the microphone, Chris Wynters proved to be the vocal stronghold of the band. Wynters’ shone vocally on “Memory Street,” a sad and nostalgic song off their newest album. The band also displayed great stage presence, charming the audience between songs with their wit and clever storytelling. Every musician had impressive control over his or her instrument, and the harmonies were phenomenal. Drummer Jules Mounteer and bassist Jon Nordstrom held down the rhythm in solid fashion. Scott Phillips, while displaying strong vocals, also proved to be a great guitarist and mandolin player. With a solid foundation in place, Shannon Johnson and Jason Kodie did some catchy decorating with the fiddle and accordion.
the live show is their newest release Sincerely F&M, which is a
Following the show I was anxious to spend some time listening
must-have for any fan of folk music.
to my new CD. Just like the show, the recording did not
Following a talented band such as F&M is not easy task, but Captain Tractor, a group that is celebrating the release of their eighth album, Famous Last Words, proved more than capable. With driving rhythms and energetic stage presence, Captain
disappoint. The tracks were well-recorded and every instrument was tasteful and not overplayed. The album is playful at times and serious at others, but there is no mistaking its sincerity and devotion to simply having a good time.
Tractor was a decided change of pace. As a native of an Irish-
Captain Tractor is the most entertaining band I have seen in
influenced city on the east coast I am often skeptical of bands
a long time. Paired with a band like F&M, the band put on a
who too freely describe their sound as “Celtic.” But there was no
dynamic show that proved to be the breath of fresh air the music
mistaking what defined Captain Tractor—this band does Celtic
scene so desperately needs. If you are looking for something
and they do it well. The show was undeniably fun—more like an
relaxing yet intriguing, be sure to check out F&M. On the other
east coast kitchen party than a concert.
hand, if you want to let loose and dance away some stress, Captain Tractor is a band you will not want to miss.
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