A few years ago I opined The Sadies were the best rock and roll band coming out of Canada.  Like Canadian pathfinders, The Band, they adhere to a storyline that’s about seizing opportunity.  Some days it’s collaborating with stellar musicians like Neko Case, Jon Langford, or John Doe.  Other days it’s about brothers Travis and Dallas Good strapping on electric guitars and blasting out a club gig that’s nothing short of ferocious.  Sometimes it’s about taking time off from the road and other people’s projects and holing up to record a new album.  The good news is that happened this past winter with the results due to be released shortly after the first of the year.
To be called Northern Passages, the record is classic Sadies’ sound. Â It has its share of straight ahead blistering rock and roll numbers. Â A couple of songs take that feel and overlay a little twang. Â The band is nothing if not multi-faceted though, and they stretch that out on a few slower tempo tunes that still maintain the intensity you’ve come to expect.
Falling in that last category is Riverview Fog. Â It’s an acoustic/electric mix that’s an open letter to their friend and early collaborator Rick White. Â From the very first listen you can feel the heartfelt plea to find a way for their paths to cross again. Â It’s a fitting way to build the anticipation for the full album. Â So without any further ado, Riverview Fog.
For more info on the album and tour dates, you can go to the band’s website.
About the author: I've actually driven from Tehatchapee to Tonopah. And I've seen Dallas from a DC-9 at night.