By Matthew Smolak


The Sadies
Favourite Colours
(Yep Roc, 2004)

Favourite Colours is the latest releases from alt-country underdogs The Sadies. Why underdogs? Because they are too country for rock types, and too real for country types.

Despite the rollicking opening of “Northumberland West,” with some spot-on picking, Favourite Colours is a very subdued album. The second track, “Translucent Sparrow,” is a beauty—forceful yet restrained, with a sound and vocals that hint at The Byrds. As good as it is, one senses that this track is best heard live, with all the energy of a stage performance. Also, in the noticeable Byrds-vibe, is “As Much As Such.” But the Byrds tag goes only so far: The Sadies are their own band and should be appreciated for their unique, genre-blending sound.

While there are many mellower tunes on this album, including the melancholic closer “Why Would Anybody Live Here?,” there are also tracks that show the rougher side of The Sadies, such as the raw “Coming Back.” It is the subtle dynamics of group’s song writing and performing that keeps the album fresh and enjoyable. Their songs can be quiet, laid back affairs yet still have a distorted guitar squelching along beside. Still, even the more upbeat songs can’t help but invoke a mournful feeling. The album also includes a number of instrumentals, including the haunting “The Curdled Journey,” featuring a cello and vibraphone.

Favourite Colours seems very poignant; maybe it’s because I bought this album as autumn passed. Whatever the reasons, it reaches me and this album is bound to become one of my favourites.

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