The Barrel Boys
“There’s a certain “band next door” feel to the Barrel Boys. They may be accomplished musicians with tight harmonies and great arrangements, but their music is also brimming with the kind of personality that makes you want to buy them a beer and hear their life stories.”
– Kristin Cavoukian – Exclaim!
Last with us in 2022, The Barrel Boys return with a new lineup that sees the addition of two-time Central Canadian Bluegrass Award-winning Guitarist of the Year Jake Lauzon. He joins accomplished orignal members Nathan Smith (fiddle); Rob McLaren (banjo); and Tim O’Reilly (bass).
A bluegrass powerhouse featuring rich vocal harmonies, killer picking, and a charming stage presence, The Barrel Boys are a unique staple of Canadian roots music. Informed by the deep traditions of bluegrass, country, old-time, and Americana, The Boys have crafted their unmistakable sound into a joyful and deeply soulful musical experience.
Established in 2012, their years of experience performing together has brought an easy tightness to their compelling stage performances. Nominated for “Vocal Group of the Year” at the 2021 Canadian Folk Music Awards, The Barrel Boys’ music has brought them to concert halls and festival main stages across Canada.
Named Guitarist of the Year in 2018 and 2019 at the Central Canadian Bluegrass Awards, Jake Lauzon has toured with 13-time East Coast Musi Awards winner J.P. Cormier with whom he was also chosen to showcase Canadian-made Boucher guitars and American-made Gallagher guitars. Also a fine mandolin player, he has appeared with virtuoso mandolinists Wyatt Ellis and Chris Henry. - “What a player! He’s awesome,” – J.P. Corrmier
The Barrel Boys website