Brakin' Tradition is a Celtic-flavoured group based in Nova Scotia. Performing mainly original material, they combine traditional instrumentation with tight harmonies. Music Man, a 1992 release includes the countryish "Johnny Rye" and the bouncy "Kathaleen"--a song about a schooner. Powerfolk provides a continuation of their sound with versions of "Headin' for Halifax" and Stan Rogers' "The Bluenose," as well as original songs from various members of the band. The members of Brakin' Tradition include V. Roger Stone, the group's principal songwriter, Cyril MacPhee, Dave Forsey, Harold Davidson, and Louanne (Bona) Baker.

On their third CD, Presence in the Past, Brakin' Tradition delves into its Celtic roots to present some of their favourite old tunes such as "Joe Neil," "Bonnie Besse Logan," "Star of the County Down," "Peggy Gordon," and "Brennan on the Moor." They also toss in a Stan Rogers song, "The Jeannie C.," and two by David Stone, "Storms" and "Patiently Waiting." The band was inspired by the material--this is easily their best recording to date. The musicianship and vocals are first-rate, with an emphasis on acoustic instruments and tight harmony. Having said that, it's the electric guitar and drums that drive "Brennan On The Moor" into freshness. "The Jeannie C.," while beautifully sung, is a shade too sweet and slow--it does not convey the drama and tragedy of the lyrics. The albums ends with two fine songs by David Stone, who is emerging as one of the East Coast's foremost new songwriters. If you are attracted to East Coast traditional (albeit augmented with a few electric instruments) you'll thoroughly enjoy this fine album.

Music Man
1992 Brakin' Tradition (CD-0903)

Rollin' on the Sea; Music Man; Johnny Rye; Together; Old Schoolyard; The Kathaleen; Send Me a Picture; Charlie; Listen to Me People; Can't Get Enough of You; Sleepy Head 35:22

Powerfolk
1993 Brakin' Tradition (CD-0904)

Fait Do Do; Headin' for Halifax; Lonesome Driver; Breakaway; Age Old Memories; Salmon River Road Blues; The Bluenose; L'Acadie; Lovers' Prayer; Her Father Didn't like Me; Life's a Beach; Lullabies 40:35

Presence in the Past *
1995 Brakin' Tradition (CD-09050)

Joe Neil; Bonnie Bessie Logan; Star of the County Down; Peggy Gordon; The Jeannie C.; Brennan on the Moor; Summer's in the Country; Sam Hall; Storms; Patiently Waiting 41:01