"...rock and roll that’ll melt your heart while your ears are blown away."

Spend five minutes at a Cinnamon Band show, and it becomes clear why this two-set piece stays a two-set piece: balance. Their sound, their skills, their personalities, all is in balance.
Guitarist John Harouff and drummer Neil Campbell have spent many years playing together in several bands, made obvious last Friday night when the two opened for Ultra Dolphins at Gallery5. Harouff’s drawn vocals and rhythmic guitar rested so perfectly against Campbell’s explosive, driving beats that the result couldn’t be less than intentional. Not to mention the meaningful lyrics and the gravitas of top-of-their-lungs harmonies. Push the whole package through full-volume amps, and you’ve got rock and roll that’ll melt your heart while your ears are blown away.

The band’s volume and forceful playing create a fun atmosphere that’ll have you tapping your foot and singing along. However, they’ll also hit you with slower tunes that wash over you with introspection and heartfelt imagery. They balance both ends of the spectrum.

The Cinnamon Band should almost be listed as a comedy act as well. The two couldn’t be more different, and it makes for hilarious banter. At times they seem more like a married couple than a band. While Harouff was investigating the source of shocks he was getting through his mic, Campbell leaned against his hi-hats, shook his head and laughed as he looked on. “It’s always something with you,” Campbell commented, more to the audience than his partner.

The differing talents and character traits fit well into the dichotomy of the music, resulting in a wide range of experiences for the audience. The band builds tension to volatile releases, they jab each other (or the band itself) between songs, and they look like they’re having a great time just getting to do it. If you’re looking for quality, thoughtful rock music that’s as American as cold beer and apple pie, the Cinnamon Band will deliver.


Written by Graham Neal
Photo by Will Renton © 2010

See the Cinnamon Band at The Triple Thursday!