The Bacon Brothers at Union County Performing Arts Center

Most people would agree that there’s nothing stronger, more durable and occasionally, even more volatile, than the bond between brothers. And when that bond includes the common goal of making music, the results often offer reason for an audience to sit up and take notice. While casual observers may be awed by their Hollywood credentials, critics have been quick to note that the brothers—Michael on vocals, guitar and cello and Kevin on vocals, guitar and percussion—along with the band that’s been with them since the beginning—Paul Guzzone (bass, backing vocals), Joe Mennonna (keyboards, accordion), Ira Siegel (lead guitar, mandolin and backing vocals) and Frank Vilardi (drums)—eschew any hint of glitz and glamour in favor of an ethic gleaned from the hard lessons that come as a result of determination and drive.