Honeybear, The Band, steps into the spotlight with a compelling self-titled album that speaks the language of blues with sincerity and vigor. Fronted by the charismatic Ian Beaty on vocals and bass, with Colin Brumelle’s guitar cutting through the mix, Mike Kenney’s keyboards coloring the soundscape, and Tim Watson’s steady drumming locking the groove, Honeybear offers a refreshingly honest blues experience for today’s listeners.
From the first note of their single “I Was Wrong,” it’s clear Vancouver-based Honeybear is not retreading old ground but charting a new course. The song’s lyrics — penned by Beaty and Brumelle — evoke the universal journey of reflection and growth, balancing vulnerability and strength with a bluesy authenticity that is both timeless and immediate. "There were times when I was wrong / And I didn’t know it / There were times when I was wrong / And it knew it well," Ian sings, with a voice that carries the weight of hard lessons learned and the grace of acceptance.
Produced by Jeff Zipp and released on their own Playmor label, the album showcases the band’s tight interplay and dynamic range. The music moves effortlessly between heartfelt balladry and upbeat grooves, with a sound rooted in classic blues tradition yet unafraid to embrace contemporary nuances. Honeybear invites listeners into a world where each song is a story, a confession, and a celebration.
The band’s Vancouver roots run deep, and their live shows are a testament to their commitment to connection and authenticity. Whether playing the intimate corners of local venues or larger festivals, Honeybear’s energy is palpable, and their musicianship impeccable. Their sound bridges generations, inviting longtime blues aficionados and new fans alike to rediscover the power of the genre.
“I Was Wrong,” the lead single set for release on June 20, 2025, is already generating buzz on Spotify, SoundCloud, and YouTube, capturing attention with its raw emotion and catchy melodic hooks. The song’s lyrical honesty resonates widely, reminding listeners of the redemptive power of owning one’s mistakes and moving forward.
The band describes their creative process as deeply collaborative. “We write what we live,” says Ian Beaty. “Our songs come from real experiences, moments that stick with you — the kind of stories that belong in the blues.” Colin Brumelle adds, “We want the music to feel alive, something that makes people feel they’re part of the story.”
Honeybear’s lineup reads like a blueprint for success in modern blues: Ian Beaty’s soulful vocals and commanding bass; Colin Brumelle’s expressive guitar work; Mike Kenney’s rich keyboard textures; and Tim Watson’s solid, tasteful drumming. Together, they create a sound that is robust and nuanced, commanding attention without overpowering.
With their new album poised to make waves, Honeybear, The Band is hitting the road with a tour that brings their compelling blues to audiences across British Columbia and beyond.
