"Strings and honesty galore with this band — think folk rock pounded out on a cello and violins. Think real musicianship. Think about the possibility you’ve probably never experienced quite anything like the Shoemaker Brothers before." --Matt Driscoll, The Weekly Volcano
"These guys are talented lyricists, and the subject matter is across the board. In terms of sound, they have elements of folk and blues with strings that seem to travel the world in inspiration. Their skill as musicians is conveyed throughout, and each song feels like it belongs." --VenusArms
Album News!
The Shoemaker Brothers album is available for purchase at www.cdbaby.com/ShoemakerBrothers or through iTunes, Amazon, Rhapsody or Napster. Check it out!
The Shoemaker Brothers hail from the Pacific Northwest, the progeny of Celtic and Nordic roots, they look like Viking athletes cum merry men of ancient lore but sing like angels and play rock music with a classical musician’s touch. Coming of age in a period marked by the Iraqi War, reflected on by the “You” revolution, and overwrought with icons and iconoclasts, the Brothers, Samuel, Nathanael, Daniel, and Gabriel, play music that debunks conventional styles, yet emanates naturally from the four Brothers’ talented hands.
Growing as the four middle children of seven, the Brothers’ music education began as soon as each could walk. With seven children, the family’s funds were stretched tight, but with any extra resources, the Brothers’ parents bought instruments and music lessons for their children. Each child was expected to master a specific instrument but with any idle time, the Brothers traded instruments to try something new. Any visitor to the Shoemaker household found a crowded living room filled with cups of coffee and tea, and the Brothers making up words and notes, following the lead of whoever held the guitar for that song.
As each brother became an adult, each began carving his own path. The oldest, Sam, joined the Marine Corps, serving two combat tours in Iraq. After serving five years in the marines, Sam left the Corps and matriculated at Washington State University to finish his Bachelor’s degree. In the meantime, Nate and Dan, after spending time traveling in the Caribbean, also began at WSU with the aid of scholarships from the music department. Gabie, the youngest brother, started at Whitworth College on a full football scholarship.
Wherever the Brothers went in life, however, music came with them. Sam played the violin in Iraq for his fellow troops. The Brothers played together for one of their older siblings’ weddings, an event orchestrated around a song Nate wrote called “Never Forget.” Dan traveled the West Coast and throughout the Caribbean, supporting himself by singing and playing the guitar. Gabie played violin in Whitworth’s orchestra when he wasn’t lining up as nose tackle for the football team.
After spending the holidays together in late 2007, playing and trading instruments as they always had, the Brothers brainstormed taking their talent to the next level. As with most of the best decisions made in life, the path looked daunting, but the choice was obvious. With no more than the instruments they already owned, a full size van, a lifetime worth of resourcefulness, and a hunch that they had something special, the Shoemaker Brothers embarked on a national tour. Playing gigs in one-horse towns to mega metropolises, bars, cafés, small music halls, anywhere that would have them, the Brothers have built a strong following one gig at a time.
Hundreds of shows later, the Brothers have gelled as a band and honed their stage presence. Attending a Shoemaker show is like paying for regular treatment, but getting the deluxe. The Brothers trade instruments after every song, and the same Brother rarely sings more than one song in a row. Each brother has a distinct voice, but all of them are deep and melodic. Their songs range from energetic and deep to lighthearted and blissful. The lyrics range from poetic to direct, showcasing the complex nature of the Shoemakers’ collective experience and personalities.
Hey its Sem. Thought I would see how you are. Our myspace is not broken anymore :) The last few days have been a nightmare. Just wanted to let you know if you didn't get my last message that we have a new single coming out next Spring, and if you haven't seen yet we have a new website. www.bensem.com If you become a member you will be one of the first to know the release date. The only reason I mention is that it takes me about 6 months to try and tell everyone on myspace lol. You up to much this weekend? Speak to you soon
Isn't your private event in Cannon Beach? Abe and I will be there... and by the way we got ENGAGED!!! Get ready for a Shelton Shindig :) See you at Mark's 50th
Hey brothers! Hope all is going well for you guys. I have been watching for when you are back in Boise. Hope you come back and play at Janets you guys are amazing. We have had alot of people ask when you are coming back. The last show was amazing we all had a great time hope we can do it again!!!
Hey boys. I just wanted to let you know that I love love love the new songs. Amazing! I hope you are all doing well. See you when you return to California.
LOVE the new songs (and some older)! You guys just keep getting better and better! Can't wait until you hit ashland again! Or Eugene/Portland on a weekend!
What a splendid and rather unexpected treat you gave us last night. Our evening started out somewhat undevised, but soon came together when you fellas graced the stage. We knew we were exactly where we needed to be. Your music is simply profound. And your performance is both genuine and surreal. Thank you! We will be seeing you again.
Awesome to have you at the Lumberyard last night! Hope you liked the sneaker waves, lime drops, and washington apples! Abe and I will See you in August!
