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In the fall of 2024, Coastline was formed when Cape Breton University’s Community Studies and Music Societies began hosting live-music wing nights on campus. In the fall of 2024, band manager Meghan MacKinnon, a CBU student from New Waterford, was one of the leading forces behind Live Music Wing Nights at CBU. During these CBU Live Music Wing Nights, Breagh, Luke, Ben and Ryan performed, which led to them performing as a group. After successful Wing Nights and group performances they saw the potential to form a full band. Meghan now plays a vital role in the management behind the band.
After some more adjustments, the Band felt a drummer could really pull their sound together. MacNamara - having played hockey with Cam Sollazzo - suggested he be invited to a rehearsal and Sollazzo clicked immediately becoming the Band's full time percussionist.
Later on the band realized it was time to pull in a bass player. Dawson Cecchetto, a friend of MacNamara and former bandmate of MacKinnon, immediately came to mind and after just one rehearsal it was clear he was the right choice.
Today, Coastline has been establishing their name as a young, high-energy band from Cape Breton made up of talented students. Together, Coastline blends folk, country, pop, rock, and traditional Cape Breton tunes, creating a sound that truly offers something for everyone. Each performance is fun, lively, and full of energy. With lots of future plans, you can expect plenty of Coastline gigs and new music to come. Stay tuned for more!
Breagh Kelly
Breagh Kelly
Lead Vocals, Songwriter, and Piano
Breagh Kelly, from Glace Bay, is pursuing a dual degree in Community Studies and Business. She’s a singer-songwriter who has graced festivals and local venues, sharing her musical talent. She grew up performing with her dad Jerome Kelly, a popular local musician, and they have performed as a duo all over the island. She is also a familiar face on the Savoy stage in productions such as Jersey Boys, Mamma Mia, Come From Away, and Cape Breton Rising Stars, Breagh has also been making her mark as a solo artist, with her debut single “Was It Something I Said” released in August 2025.
Ryan MacNamara
Ryan MacNamara
Lead Vocals, and Acoustic Guitar
Ryan MacNamara, a business student from Sydney and son of radio personality Rob MacNamara, adds powerful vocals to the band. Ryan also plays acoustic rhythm guitar. Outside of the band, Ryan can be seen playing locally at solo gigs in the community. His unique tone and vocals leave a lasting impression at all his performances. (Photo credit J. Donovan)
Luke MacKinnon
Luke MacKinnon
Lead Guitar, Mandolin, and Vocals
Luke MacKinnon, a math and engineering student from New Waterford, is a talented multi-instrumentalist and singer who grew up surrounded by music. Throughout school, he was lucky to have been taught by CB music legends Stephen Muise and Richard Burke and sees this as a driving factor to his playing. Luke also works casual with multiple audio video companies bringing technological assets to the band. Whether it’s, mandolin, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, or even trombone, Luke brings talent, depth and versatility to the group. (Photo credit J. Donovan)
Ben Smith
Ben Smith
Fiddle
Ben Smith, a Business and Community Studies dual degree grad, is now pursuing his MBA at CBU. He also works at the Gaelic College. He brings the sound of traditional Cape Breton fiddle to the band while also blending other genres. He spent most of his childhood on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao, but also spent time in Cape Breton visiting family, and learning from some of Cape Breton’s finest fiddlers. He has experience in the recording studio, has played in an orchestra, and can be seen performing at local Cape Breton Ceilidhs.
Cameron Sollazzo
Cameron Sollazzo
Drums
Cameron Sollazzo, a talented drummer from Sydney River and Bachelor of Arts student at Cape Breton University, has years of experience performing with various Cape Breton bands and groups. He is the leading force behind Coastline’s rhythm, energy, and overall sound. If it wasn’t for Cam, Coastline would not be anything like it is today. (Photo credit J. Donovan)
Dawson Cecchetto
Dawson Cecchetto
Bass Guitar
Dawson Cecchetto, a talented bass player from New Waterford, is the most recent musician to join the Coastline team. In addition to his musical skills, Dawson can balance a busy schedule as he currently works as a nurse. Dawson grew up playing trumpet yet his passion for bass playing adds depth, fullness, and groove to the group’s overall sound.
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