The Sadies were in Regina on Thursday for a show at the Exchange. I didn’t make it out to the gig because I was at a fantastic dance performance by Compagnie Marie Chouinard at University Theatre. But Kendall Latimer, who was a My Music subject in an issue of Prairie Dog last December, did and she sent us this review of the show which I’m posting here:
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I went to the Exchange on Oct. 17 with big expectations and no preconceived notions as I had never seen The Sadies play live before. I was thankful they made a stop in Regina to promote their exceptional new album Internal Sounds. True to the title of the event it was an entire evening with The Sadies, and it would be one to remember. The band hailing from Toronto hit the stage after nine and played two equally energized sets to a full house. Faces were grinning, feet were dancing, and the general crowd aged from dewy eyed teens to seniors was not disappointed. The Sadies lived up to their reputation of playing a tremendous live show. They played songs from previous albums, two uniquely done covers, and treated the expectant audience to songs off the new album — and they didn’t disappoint.
The dichotomy created by the Good brothers mesmerizing voices and talent on the strings carried and cradled the rolling sound that is The Sadies. It is a perfect blend of Travis Good’s coiling, serpent-like intensity in contrast to Dallas Good’s tall, dark, and mellow demeanor. The brothers were accompanied by band mates Mike Belitsky and Sean Dean who, when added into the mix, create the perfect formula, and help spread the magic that is The Sadies.
The band has worked with the likes of Andre Williams, Neil Young, and Neko Case (to name a few) and it has helped them hone their craft. The Sadies have a sound unlike any other, so much so that they verge on the creation of their own genre. It is a concoction of twangy country, grunge rock, surf rock, and a pinch of a little something extra — a secret ingredient, and it works. Each new album showcases the evolution of their sound and creative abilities, and leaves one wondering why these guys aren’t getting much more radio spins.
The band that is so tight and captivating while playing has a modest, humble presence when not on stage. These down to earth guys were out and around the venue well before the show started and did not hesitate to converse with hopeful fans. The same was true for after the show, as the musicians enjoyed a beer inside the Exchange and engaged with those who enjoyed their music and music in general. The burning flame that is The Sadies left its mark on Regina, and we can’t wait for them to return. The Sadies nailed it. I left the venue with two vinyls under my arm, and two very satisfied ears on my head.