N.Q.Arbuckle is the unassuming band nudging its way to the bar of great Canadian music.
The bar room prophet himself, Neville Quinlan is clever and modest. You could become his drinking buddy simply by showing up at one of his haunts and sidling next to him for a few pints, a cigarette and easy conversation. Mark Kesper is easygoing and maintains the wheel of the N.Q. touring vehicle. Pete Kesper on guitar is a Leo, likes surprises and is quick to admit he’s only in it because he likes the music. No illusions of fame and glory. John Dinsmore, on bass, is the definition of calm but he carries a big stick.
The lyrics take you from lamp lit Toronto streets to your local bar where the regulars are waiting. Neville’s voice acts as sandpaper making rough things smooth and smooth things rough. Brief love affairs are epic and a road trip with pals lasts three minutes. The loping rhythms are drenched in tasty cowboy guitar licks and create an urban wild west sound. The songs are lyrical and gritty and are snapshots of sweetness and loss seen through a few bottles of beer.
If you’re in the Ottawa area for the Bluesfest, pencil these guys into your schedule. Absolutely worth seeing, trust us.
