Emerging as a band just a few months ago, Broken Compass has already been recognized for their tight arrangements, tasteful playing, and distinguished songwriting. The band performs a mix of jamgrass, bluegrass, country, Grateful Dead material, and numerous originals.
Based in northern California, Broken Compass includes Kyle Ledson (19), Django Ruckrich (17), and Mei Lin Heirendt (16). Though still teenagers, they are no strangers to the music industry. All three are seasoned performers, multi-instrumentalists, songwriters, and singers and have established themselves as some of California’s most prominent up-and-coming youth. Now coming together as a band, they are a fresh force in the music scene today.
Before joining together as Broken Compass, Kyle, Django, and Mei Lin released albums separately. Left It All Behind is Kyle’s newest solo album featuring his shredding mandolin and guitar licks, impeccable vocals, and clever songwriting. Produced by Nat Keefe, the album includes members of Yonder Mountain String Band, ALO, and Hot Buttered Rum. Django and his dad, Phil, put out Gravity, an EP of original material produced by Joe Craven. Listeners can expect to hear Django’s exceptional guitar, slide guitar, mandolin, fiddle, piano, bass, and vocal skills. With her other band, Boston Ravine, Mei Lin released Ragged Road highlighting special guests Adam Haynes (The Grascals), Pete Grant, Kathy Barwick, and Max and Tessa Schwartz. The album displays her heartfelt singing and original songs as well as her thoughtful fiddle and mandolin playing.