with Allyson Reigh
Allyson Reigh, Farideh Olsen and Alexis Normand make up the folk-pop group Rosie & the Riveters. On May 11 and 12 they play two shows at Saskatoon’s the Bassment for their album Ms. Behave. What are Allyson’s picks for this column? “I chose songs from my pre-show playlist that I listen to before performing,” says Allyson. “They’ve all got some element that makes me feel good before we hit the stage.” /Gregory Beatty
“Juice”
Lizzo
Cuz I Love You (2019)
I love Lizzo. Her music just makes you want to dance and her lyrics are fun. She’s a classically trained flautist [and a] singer, rapper, and an all-around amazing performer. She’s also an outspoken advocate for body positivity and her back-up dancers are all plus-size women, which is an awesome thing to see in this industry.
“The Light”
Begonia
Single (2018)
I love Alexa’s quirky songwriting and killer voice. I don’t know her super well, but the Prairie music scene is small so we run into each other here and there. Seriously, go and listen to her music.
“The Chain”
Fleetwood Mac
Rumours (1977)
I know it’s one of their big hits but I still love it. The guitar lick and the drum kick right off the top of the song just get me every time. The harmonies, the lyrics, the production — everything about this song is just perfection to me.
“Ex-Factor”
Lauryn Hill
The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill (1997)
This album meant everything to me when I was a teenager. I first heard it in gym class in grade seven and I still listen to it. Lauryn’s voice, her lyrics [and] the production on the album have all stood the test of time. I saw her in concert a few years ago, and listening to her sing this song and others off of the album was something I’ll never forget.
“Want You Back”
HAIM
Something To Tell You (2017)
This song makes me think of being a kid again listening to Wilson Phillips in my backyard eating popsicles. Pop music with lots of synth and three-part harmony. There’s something about a good ’90s throwback that makes me happy.
“You Worry Me”
Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats
Tearing at the Seams (2018)
I love the groove of this track. I love the piano and his R&B-tinged Americana vocals. Just so scratchy and smooth.