THE SHEEPDOGS | LIVE REVIEW
The Globe, Cardiff, Wed 6 Apr
My gig reviews normally start at the beginning and take you on a journey that you could have experienced if you had been at The Globe in Cardiff on Wednesday. Not this time! What an encore as The Sheepdogs enthralled the audience with their version of the Allman Brothers’ iconic Whipping Post. The finale was the crowning glory – now back to the beginning.
Pontypridd band The People The Poet opened up, charged with getting us into a music vibe. They did this with style and energy. Playing tracks from their new EP, vocalist Leon engaged with the audience as the band played their own style of rock with Welsh undertones. This young band are definitely one to watch out for.
The stage was then re-organised for The Sheepdogs, out of Saskatchewan, Canada – their keyboard was draped in the state’s flag. Music full of deep riffs and a compelling mix of blues, boogie and southern rock filled the air. Tonight the set list allowed us to hear the music live from their current, critically acclaimed album Future Nostalgia and a dip back into their extensive back catalogue. The Sheepdogs are a quintet with fine harmonization, both vocal and via the twin lead guitars – given the freedom to explore the textural shapes and tones of the six-strings thanks to resounding work from the rhythm section. The guitar riffs were classic rock, the solos full of deft intricacies with the rough intimacy of a jam and then, on top of the melodic textures, rose Ewan’s vocals. At times resembling Rich Robinson of The Black Crowes, all these factors combine to create the honest sound that defines the band.
Their brand of rock was tinged at times with country blues, southern charm and the tracks kept pouring out of the speakers with subtle changes in textures and form. This was not rock defined by guitars or vocals as the keys, pedal steel and trombone created walls of sound that changed like the seasons, bringing interest and fun.
No signs of shepherds here: The Sheepdogs don’t need any controlling, they are the power of music unleashed to entertain and enjoy.
words and photos LIZ AIKEN