Biography
Barry Mathers, serving as lead vocalist, joined forces with musician Curtis Tulman to launch the Cruzeros out of British Columbia after the pair had already logged extensive shared experience. Guitarist Reg Greenwood and bassist Jim Ryan rounded out the lineup. The country-rock ensemble issued its first single and album in 1996, quickly drawing notice from listeners and reviewers first in Canada and subsequently in the United States. Recognition followed in the form of nominations from the Canadian Country Music Association, the British Columbia Country Music Association, and the Juno Awards across such categories as Best Group, Country Group of the Year, and Best Roots Group.
Though the self-titled debut was regarded as the opening chapter of larger accomplishments, five years passed before the next release emerged despite widespread praise. That sophomore album carried the Spanish title El Nino, which translates as little boy, and was dedicated to Lukas Tulman, the son of bandmember Curtis Tulman, who died during its completion. Its twelve tracks include "Roses and a Cross," "Close as It Gets to Goodbye," "Tangled Up in You," "This Old Road," and "Going There With Grace," which fuse country and bluegrass with Texas swing and rock rhythm. Over the course of their career the Cruzeros have toured with or opened for major country acts including Asleep at the Wheel and Blackhawk.
Though the self-titled debut was regarded as the opening chapter of larger accomplishments, five years passed before the next release emerged despite widespread praise. That sophomore album carried the Spanish title El Nino, which translates as little boy, and was dedicated to Lukas Tulman, the son of bandmember Curtis Tulman, who died during its completion. Its twelve tracks include "Roses and a Cross," "Close as It Gets to Goodbye," "Tangled Up in You," "This Old Road," and "Going There With Grace," which fuse country and bluegrass with Texas swing and rock rhythm. Over the course of their career the Cruzeros have toured with or opened for major country acts including Asleep at the Wheel and Blackhawk.