A Juno and Gemini-nominated band with local roots returned to Windsor to perform for a hometown crowd of hundreds Saturday night.
Elliott Brood headlined a show put on by Phog Lounge held at the historic Capitol Theatre. The nearly century-old vintage venue provided classic ambience and paired perfectly with the band’s traditional folksy tunes.
“They’re a foot-stompin’ roots-rock-country band on overdrive,” said Phog owner and show organizer Tom Lucier. “Their live show is intense. People cannot help themselves from dancing and moving around the entire time.”
From a growling guitar to a bellowing banjo, the band’s lively licks and distinct rustic yet modern rhythm rang through the theatre and was seen pulsating through the crowd’s nodding heads and arms swaying in the air.
“They tear the house down musically,” said Lucier.
The band consists of vocalist Mark Sasso, guitarist Casey Laforet and drummer Stephen Pitkin, although all three join in on vocals and bang it out on several instruments that add to their eclectic sound, including the banjo, mandolin, harmonica and piano.
Sasso and Laforet are both from Windsor.
“When Mark and Casey come back to play, we get a glimpse of what the successful touring indie musician can achieve,” said Lucier. “And they’re so down to earth, they’re an excellent resource for other local musicians.”
Elliott Brood formed in 2002 and has become a Canadian sensation known worldwide.
Lucier said the band with local ties is definitely one of his personal favourites and although they only return to the area about once a year to perform, they always attract hundreds of fans and are a great local success story.
“We have a lot to be proud of when we hear this band’s name,” said Lucier.
