Brandon “Broke String” Burnett, a luminary in the Texas music scene, brings a profound and eclectic musical journey to the forefront with his band, dubbed, The Big Iron Boys. Raised just south of Fort Worth, Broke String channels the spirit of Texas Country while infusing it with the rebellious energy of punk and a soulful grit. His distinctive style, characterized by a country crooner's soul, and a punk rock attitude, propels his songs into the ethereal realms of rootsy rock and psychedelia, a genre they affectionately call "cosmic country."
The Fort Worth Weekly aptly described their sound as “Swampy spaghetti western."
Rooted in the rich musical tapestry of Texas, Broke String draws inspiration from legendary figures like Townes Van Zandt and WIlie Nelson, whose storytelling prowess and emotional depth have left a mark on his craft. The raw, bluesy spirit of Stevie Ray Vaughan, courses through the veins of the band, infusing their music with a fiery intensity that adds a unique edge to their cosmic country sound.
As the visionary behind the band, Broke String has intentionally explored the intersection of dark western vibes and the moody, traditional tones of old-school country. This exploration is vividly showcased in the band's full-length album, “Doppelganger,” a 12-track opus that invites listeners into the expansive cosmos of Broke String's musical vision. The band's live performances, dynamic and immersive, have resonated across the DFW metroplex, sharing stages with both local and touring acts. Including opening for the seminal punk roots band Legendary Shack Shakers.
In 2023, the band's artistic merit was recognized with a Travel Grant from Hear Fort Worth, providing vital support for their November Texas Tour. In December they were nominated in multiple categories for the Fort Worth Weekly Music Awards, including Best Americana Band and Best Album for “Doppelganger." The band's drummer, John Paul Thomas, clinched a Panthy for Best Drummer, underscoring their impact on the local music scene.
In April 2024 Broke String announced his collaboration with Datalus Studios to write a collection of songs based on their independent Western film Harsh Treatment. The film debuted with a sold out showing at the Violet Crown Theater in Dallas as part of the Dallas International Film Festival. The song “Rattlesnake Moon” was chosen to debut in the movie with the film being scored by the legendary composer Bruce Broughton.
Broke String and The Big Iron returned to the stage, making their festival debut at Dan's Silverleaf for Thin Line Fest opening for pivotal Dallas Cowpunk band The Vandoliers. The band debuted new songs from their upcoming album"Bloodveins." The album was tracked, mixed, and mastered by Clint Niosi at Orange Otter Audio in Fort Worth, TX. Album Release To Be Announced…
Broke String's journey continues to unfold, promising a sonic experience that transcends traditional musical boundaries.