When The Brokedown’s self released debut “The Dutchmans Gold” came out in 2005, I doubt they could have predicted the events that would follow. The band got some attention for the album, and some label interest but didnt sign until the middle of 2006, when they had already completed another album. Not long after they signed to Merge records they got a cease and desist letter from a band with a “similar name” and decided to change their tag to The Broken West.

And the music you hear on their Merge debut, “I Cant Go On, Ill Go On” is only a small change, just like the slight tweak to the bandname. The Los Angeles 5 piece trot out an impressive collection of songs too, good enough to see what caught the ear of Merge Records, one of our favorite labels. Early standouts like, “On the Bubble” and “Brass Ring” allow the listener to get a good feel for the bands well executed guitar riffs and catchy hooks. The album will be out January 23rd on Merge.
The Broken West – Down in the Valley

The Broken West – On the Bubble

The band has also announced a string of dates supporting The Walkmen.

03.09.2007 Baltimore MD (Ottobar)
03.10.2007 Columbus OH (Little Brothers)
03.11.2007 Chicago IL (Schuba’s Tavern)
03.12.2007 Newport KY (Southgate House)
03.13.2007 Louisville KY (Headliners Music Hall)
03.18.2007 New Orleans LA (The Parish at House of Blues)
03.19.2007 Tallahassee FL (Beta Bar)
03.20.2007 Athens GA (40 Watt Club)
03.21.2007 Asheville NC (Grey Eagle)
03.22.2007 Chapel Hill NC (Local 506)
03.23.2007 Washington DC (Rock and Roll Hotel)

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