The Brakes are 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 that this band has shared the bill with: Dave Matthews Band to The Hold Steady, Live to Willie Nelson & John Fogerty.

This past spring, their diverse talents were highlighted when the band took on dual city residencies, performing weekly in New York City and Philadelphia. Inhabiting The Knitting Factory in NYC every Tuesday and at Milkboy in Ardmore, PA every Thursday, the band effortlessly transitioned from famed NYC rock club to intimate listening room, often times re-arranging their songs for each different setting.

These historic performances were captured on record with the help of Milkboy Recording's Tommy Joyner (Gomez, The Dixie Hummingbirds) and aptly titled "A Tale of Two Cities".