The Broadsides

The original songs are about love, loss, redemption, and the influence of hostile landscapes on our psyche and belief in God. The Broadsides stick with the country music tradition of storytelling and developing a strong connection with the audience.

The band consists of five members; Alan Meharry (vocals, rhythm and slide guitar), Etienne Harris (double bass), Dave Khan (violin, guitar, Dobro, accordian and mandolin), Dave Ward, (banjo and guitar), Ben Michelson (drums).

The Broadsides gig throughout the Auckland region and has supported international acts. A significant development for The Broadsides is the inclusion of their song “Billy Bible and the Beast Boy” on an American compilation, featuring artists from around the world.

With the realities of being a performer in the music industry, The Broadsides approach their brainchild with a businesslike sense with each member assuming a duty within general running and organization of the band; be it accountant, booking agent, web developer, liaison officer, marketing and advertising, aside from assuming their duties as composers and instrumentalists.

The Story of The Broadsides is not dissimilar than any other band in the world, with the exception that none of the members knew each other from a bar of soap, when the band started out.

In its formative years Alan Meharry met with Etienne Harris, with the intention of assembling a band, that had similar tastes in music. A drummer was added to the fray and the trio set off on a blind man’s course of playing gigs in the shadows of already established bands. Almost a year went by, after auditioning a number of musicians to fill the roll as an additional guitarist. Soon, two members stepped to the fore, David Ward and David Khan. Both being very talented and established musicians. With the addition the band entered a new phase where songs were work shopped to suit the addition of leading instruments.

No sooner had The Broadsides evolved into a five piece, when their drummer had to step down, due to too many commitments. Ben Michelson sat in for a number of shows and promptly announced he wanted to join the band permanently. Since then The Broadsides has solidified their “sound” and has never looked back.

Late 2009, The Broadsides were approached by an American independent record label to include their song “Billy Bible & The Beast Boy” on a compilation album, that was to feature some of the worlds finest musicians, of their ilk. With that achievement under the belt The Broadside’s profile has become somewhat elevated, with a radio airplay and an interview soon following in its wake. Their energetic stage shows has already won them followers of all ages and walks of life.