The Brakes are a Philadelphia-based band of twenty-somethings intent on staking a claim to the rich lineage of American rock music. A genuine rock and roll band at first glance. However, given a closer look, elements of folk, jazz and even post-rock reveal themselves, making their sound a distinct intertwining of American music, held together by insightful lyrics and memorable songs. Their musicality shines through as the members switch instruments, trading guitars, basses and keyboards for trumpets and saxophones. The band's success is evident in the range of acts they have shared the bill with: Dave Matthews Band to The Hold Steady, Live to Willie Nelson & John Fogerty. This is their debut full-length album, recorded live during a dual city residency in New York City and Philadelphia. The band would head up the New Jersey Turnpike every Tuesday to set up shop at The Knitting Factory in Manhattan, while getting cozy with hometown fans every Thursday at MilkBoy in the city of brotherly love. In both settings The Brakes distinguish themselves with equal parts razor sharp songwriting and searing musicianship.