Musical Wednesday with Crooked Rapids

Crooked Rapids is a folk band from northwestern New Brunswick that electrifies the stage with an explosive blend of country, bluegrass, and the raw energy of streetgrass. Their songs are an irresistible cocktail of resonator picking, fiery mandolin, and heartfelt harmonies, all driven by the solid rhythm of the upright bass.

Picture a bluegrass jam session fueled by the spirit of the mountains and a good shot of moonshine — that’s the unique experience Crooked Rapids delivers.

The band was formed in May 2023, originally by Sean Connely (guitar, resonator guitar, harmonica, vocals) and Richard Guay (mandolin, guitar, kazoo, vocals). During the summer of 2023, the duo began crafting original songs in a folk/bluegrass style. In December 2023, longtime friend Doris Bérubé (upright bass, vocals) joined, turning the group into a trio.

With over 20 years of musical experience, the members have been part of — and in some cases still are part of — various other projects including Old School Detention, Damn Old Brew, and Peck and the Tones.

2024 was packed with shows, both at festivals and in local venues, and 2025 is shaping up to be a big year with the release of their first album in the spring.