When Wes was invited up to sing with older brother Greg Reamsbottom (The Hairfarmers, Whole Lotta Led) at Whistler many years ago, someone jokingly referred to him as "Little Brother." The name stuck, and, five years ago when the band was looking for a name, "The Little Brother Band" seemed a natural choice. Although the band has been actively playing since 2002, the current lineup has been in place since 2005, when the brother connection was reinforced with the addition of Davis on bass, brother of drummer Tyler.
The members of The Little Brother Band bring together a diverse collection of musical influences: folk, blues, rock, pop, country, soul, jazz, and world.
Wes provides the pure and sometimes emotively raw vocal sound, acoustic guitar, and a knack for writing heartfelt and catchy lyrics, while Dan brings a soulful voice and some powerhouse bluesy lead guitar. Kelly adds an element of class and R&B to the band with her elegant keys and soulful saxophone. Tyler brings a touch of jazz with subtle pocket drumming and an amazing sense of dynamics. Davis (White Chocolate), is equally at home playing rock solid bass lines and the occasional tasty fill as he is with the funky grooves of George Clinton.
All members of the band are capable songwriters and are lately focussed on producing collaborative works that truly represent the 'sound' of The Little Brother Band.
Lower-Mainland based, The Little Brother Band has played gigs throughout southern B.C. Past shows have included Peachfest, Seafest, Sunfest, Music in the Park, The Railway Club, The ROXY (Vancouver), The ACT Theatre and Rooster's Country Cabaret (Maple Ridge), The Washington Avenue Grill and Coast Capital Theatre (White Rock), Dusty's and Merlin's (Whistler) and The Duncan Showroom Garage (Vancouver Island).
The Little Brother Band released their first album, "Reflections," in late 2006, and just completed their highly anticipated second album, "Thicker Than Water" in May 2010! The band's focus has turned to promoting the new album touring throughout the summer of 2010.
Instrumentation
Wes Reamsbottom -- vocals, acoustic guitar
Dan Myers -- vocals, lead guitar
Kelly McQuillan -- vocals, keyboards, tenor saxophone
Tyler Friesen -- drums, percussion
Davis Friesen -- bass
Discography
"Reflections" Full-length album released August 2006. Available through I-Tunes, CD Baby, etc.
"Thicker Than Water" Full-length album released May 2010. Available through I-Tunes, CD Baby, etc.