Harmonica, drums, trombone, alto saxophone, trumpet and the baritone sax are all present in this Brooklyn based, nine piece band. I had the opportunity to see these birds about a year and a half ago down at Jillian's. I won tickets from EQX. I had never heard of them, but after the show I was extra turned on. The little peanut Arleigh (sister sparrow) is straight rock star. Her wide eyes tell a story and captivate the crowd like no other.
Just recently, through Maryleigh of Maryleigh & the Fauves, I heard they were coming to The Putnam Den in Saratoga. $$. Not only were they playing, but the Fauves were too! I can't really think of 2 better bands in one venue, they complimented each other so nicely. I was secretly hoping for Maryleigh & Arleigh to pair up and create beautiful music together. Next time??
The birds are touring in effort to promote their second album, "Pound of Dirt," just released this past February. This album has a softer more romantic sound to it in comparison to their debut album, which has that Amy Winehouse/sexy-power vibe. Maybe the 'dirty birds' took a bath or fell in love? Either way, it's a fun, upbeat album. Perfect for the change of season.
The vocals from Arleigh (Sister Sparrow) were groovy, powerful and delicious. Also, Arleigh is STUNNING, to boot. Their vivacious ability to bring the funk amidst their bluesy genre is what makes this band pretty gosh darn unique. They sound modern despite the absence of keyboards and synthesizers, just classic instruments played so very well. Vintage and fucking cool.
I couldn't help creep on the harmonica player, Jackson. Dude is just my type, long hair, beard, wears his aviators on stage...swoon. His stage presence was so strong in relation to the size of his instrument. He was one with his many harmonica's last night and who knew there were different kinds? The whole band together simply rocked and provided for a sweet dance party. They played my fav song to open, "Untie My Shoelaces," along with "Mille Mae," "Rock In It," and "Boom Boom"
As always, Maryleigh & the Fauves were spot on. Switching up the dynamic of the group, by adding another guitarist and parting ways with the trombone player, it still worked. Their set was consistent and way more fun than the last time I saw them. A different setting (read: bar) always provides for a little more freedom. Maryleigh had her hair down, dropped a couple of 'f-bombs' and warmed the crowd up just as an opening band should. They played a couple new songs which I hope become available online soon and they paid homage to Biggie Smalls too, closing their set with "Big Poppa." Just when you thought it couldn't get any better... it flippin does.
Tickets were $10 ...and who said Friday the 13th is unlucky? Check these two gems out.
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