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 hes 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. When asked more questions about themselves, the
four reluctant heros of alt-country seem to retreat
into self-deprecating humour and go back to their
drinks. Overheard at NXNE in 2005 These are guys I
want to be friends with.
The lyrics take you from lamplit parkdale streets to
your local bar where the regulars are waiting.
Nevilles 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.
