The Breakmakers started as a family affair with two brothers from Birkenhead, Joe and Sam McDonnell. Joe is an introverted singer/songwriter with an cynical old soul. He had penned a book of songs by the age of sixteen, and was on the acoustic circuit in Liverpool at eighteen. In 2003 they formed The Breakmakers with to raise money for an ill relative, the gig was to become the first of their musical career. The Breakmakers gave Joe's sophisticated songs, and storytelling lyrics the backdrop they deserved, and their unashamedly classic sound was born. They set up a studio in the basement of their house and began crafting something special and unforgettable. In late 2004 they released their debut EP 'Things We Say We Do' which was described by the Sunday Times as 'Wonderful'.