THE SADIES
Pure Diamond Gold (Bloodshot)
Reviewed by John Sekerka

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The hardest working men (with guitars that is) in Canada do it again. Dinna think The Sadies could equal their last long player, but they've really outdone themselves with Pure Diamond Gold. Adding more vocals to their cowboy mix is a surprise blessing, especially considering the minuscule range of the Good brothers. Nevermind fella, cuz the deadpan delivery is the perfect side dish to the main course here. It works especially well on the standout "It's Nothing To Me", which sounds a helluva lot like "Psycho" (the old country warbler, not The Sonics rave up, so please, no letters - I know what I'm doing here). The grand spaghetti western guitar licks always get the better of me, and darn it if I don't choke up every time guest skirt Kelly Hogan squeals during the galloppy "Medicine Ball". Then there's the glorious "Higher Power", which would do the Carter Family proud. And just when you think that's it, there's the absolute tear- jerking beauty of "Eastwinds". The thrillingly croaky vocals of Freakwater's Catherine Irwin is the cherry on this cake. There are few, no make that no pleasures in life finer. The Sadies are it.

© 2000 - John Sekerka