Dead Horses arrive at the Hideout in celebration of the release of their new album, Brady Street, accompanied once again by The Brother Brothers.
On a perfect summer evening, we turned up at the Hideout to find people, including the musicians who would be playing that night, enjoying a drink, relaxing, and catching up with friends on the patio out front. That scene set the tone for what was to come on an intimate night of beautiful music and poetic lyrics at one of Chicago’s great live music venues.
The last time we caught Dead Horses in Chicago was in the midst of a Polar Vortex that led to a burst pipe at The Old Town School of Folk Music meaning they had to put the show on in an alternative venue. We wrote at the time that, despite the issues with the venue and the arctic expedition we had to undertake to get there (maybe even partially because of this) the show was fantastic and one that will live long in the memory. So, it goes without saying that we were excited to once again see Sarah and Dan take to the stage (this time with the great addition of drummer Jamie Gallagher and an extra foot or so of Dan’s hair) particularly given the fact that the show also coincided with the release of their new album Brady Street.
On that frozen night, as with tonight, support was provided by The Brother Brothers (made up of twin brothers, Adam and David Moss). The bands complement each other perfectly and whilst Adam and David like to crack a joke or two on stage between songs, there is no questioning the depth and insightfulness of the songwriting. When the music starts, you are immediately drawn in by the voices, perfect harmonies, and fantastic musicianship. Speaking with American Songwriter last year upon the release of their album Calla Lily, David mentioned the fact that when writing, one of his and Adam’s first thoughts is “whether a song is it going to catch the ear of the listener—are they going to hear the words?”. Listening to their music, you can tell how much effort they put into their craft. The lyrics, drawn from their own lives and experiences of the world around them, have a way of sitting with you well after the song has finished.
Having had the chance to speak with Sarah about her songwriting and life in the band, it came as little surprise to hear a song such as “Days Grow Longer” on Brady Street. It’s a song that seems to both express frustration with the effects of the Covid lockdown which took the band off the road whilst remaining optimistic/upbeat around where we may be headed. Sarah spoke in our interview about how the road is the band’s natural environment and how much she and Dan enjoy traveling the length and breadth of the US to play, taking inspiration from the places they see and the people they meet.
As they take to the stage at the Hideout, they open with this song, the upbeat melody immediately infusing the room with energy right from the start. From that moment, the band held the attention of everyone in the room with a set filled with songs from right across their catalog. Of course, given that the new album was released just the day before, Brady Street was well represented with particular standouts on the night being the title track, “Ward” and “OK Kid.”
There is a tone to Sarah’s voice that is simultaneously smooth and comforting but with a subtle gritty edge where the song calls for it. Taking to the stage barefoot and switching between a couple of electric and acoustic guitars, she delivers her vocals flawlessly, delivering the songs powerfully, and with real emotional depth. There is something about seeing a songwriter that is willing to put it all out there and Sarah writes lyrics that are personal, observational, poetic, but above all honest. It’s a powerful combination and one which makes you keep coming back to see what she has to say next!
The sound of Dan’s stand-up bass is dialed in perfectly for the room. His bass lines, often add interesting counterpoints to the vocal melody and are an integral part of the band’s sound so it was great to be able to clearly hear his playing throughout the night. Jamie Gallagher is a fantastic addition to the line-up and his drums really add an extra dimension to the band’s live show. He locks in perfectly with Dan throughout the night, providing the foundation over which Sarah can play and deliver her vocals.
This was a night that demonstrated what’s great about live music. All the elements (venue, audience, and above all the bands) came together perfectly to create a memorable show filled with great music, thoughtful lyrics, and a feeling of happiness as you walked out into the summer evening warmth at the end of the show.
The band is about to head back to their road dog lifestyle so be sure to check out their website to see if they’ll be hitting a venue near you and make sure you grab some tickets.
Words by: Phil WaltonPhotos by: Kirstine Walton
DEAD HORSES
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