LIVE REVIEW + PHOTOS: The Sheepdogs in Cambridge, MA (10.07.24)

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LIVE REVIEW + PHOTOS: The Sheepdogs in Cambridge, MA (10.07.24)

On a crisp fall evening, The Sheepdogs (a southern-rock style band from Saskatoon, Canada) brought their signature blend of classic rock and modern vibes to The Sinclair in Cambridge. It wasn’t exactly the packed house it should have been but none the less, those that packed the floor space were eager to see the Canadian rockers deliver a night of unforgettable music, and they did not disappoint.

The show kicked off with “Find The Truth,” setting a lively tone with its head bopping groove. The band’s tight harmonies and polished musicianship were immediately apparent, drawing the audience into their signature sound. Following this opener, “Downtown” kept the momentum going, with its catchy chorus and southern classic rock bluesy flair, which opened up plenty of space for some tight jams from the band. “Let Me In” offered a slightly slower tempo but no less energy, showcasing lead vocalist Ewan Currie’s impressive vocal range. The vibe shifted to a more gritty edge with “Bad Lieutenant,” (possibly an ode the hilariously over the top Nick Cage movie) where the band’s classic rock influences shone through.

As the night progressed, tracks like “How Late How Long” and “Hole” revealed the band’s versatility, moving seamlessly between heartland rock and soulful grooves. Such a simple song with deep meaning, “I got a hole where my heart should be” is such an ear worm – I implore you to give that one a listen if you haven’t heard it yet. One of my favorites. “Southern Dreaming” had a laid-back feel, its nostalgic lyrics painting vivid pictures that resonated with the audience. The highlight of the evening came with “Cool Down Kiss The Brass Ring,” a fan favorite that had everyone dancing along with its’ infectious rhythm and playful lyrics.

“Take Me For A Ride” saw the band dial up the energy once more, rocking out every chance they got. It’s clear that this band thrives on jamming on as if they were an old school bar room band back in the late 70’s. I’ve always dug that energy from them and it’s what keeps me coming back to see them anytime they are in town. As the set continued, “Darling Baby” and “Scarborough Street Fight” showcased the band’s storytelling prowess, with lyrics that told tales of love, struggle, and resilience. The evening culminated with “I Don’t Know” and “Nobody,” both of which encapsulated the band’s unique blend of rock and soul. The climactic energy of the final tracks left the audience wanting more, but the band ended on a high note, leaving a lasting impression.

Overall, The Sheepdogs delivered a masterclass in live performance, skillfully balancing deep grooves with infectious energy. Their knack for creating that old school sound that brings you back to the days of The Band, Allman Brothers, and The Grateful Dead made for a memorable night at The Sinclair. Even though these guys hail from Canada, they have always felt to me like a lasting piece of Americana in music, intertwining my favorite parts of this genre of rock and roll. Their new album “Paradise Alone” is absolutely worth a listen. Next time these guys come around, come on out and let’s find a way to pack that venue to show The Sheepdogs the attention they deserve. They certainly put the sass in Saskatoon, SK!


Photos – The Sheepdogs at The Sinclair in Cambridge, MA on October 7th:

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