The snow was falling in NYC this Saturday night, but the heat was brewing inside Bowery Ballroom as native Brooklyn-based band Sister Sparrow and the Dirty Birds performed with Yo Mama’s Big Fat Booty Band.
The Dirty Birds came on first, giving them a chance to showcase their talents before Sister Sparrow’s (lead singer Arleigh Kincheloe – one of L4LM “Five Women to Keep BOTH Eyes On”) presence commanded the attention of the crowd. The Dirty Birds are a full band indeed, comprised of three horns, a bassist, drummer, guitarist, and a harmonica player. Unfortunately, there seemed to be some sound problems, as Sasha Brown’s guitar and Jackson Kincheloe’s harmonica were far too low to be properly enjoyed for a portion of the show. However, by the time each band member had a bit of a solo, it seemed as if the problem was corrected. The band was returned to its full sound to properly give Sister Sparrow a run for the spotlight.
Sister Sparrow is a force to be reckoned with, a reminder that a powerful punch can still come out of something small and sweet. She simultaneously gives an energetic hip moving hair swinging stage presence, with a powerhouse voice that is both blistering and euphonic. Her voice, in combination with this band, makes for a perfect call and response; at times it is hard to tell who is calling the tune. Whether playing songs from the album Pound of Dirt, or belting out new covers such as ACDC’s “Back in Black”, this band had no problem keeping the crowd on their toes all night long. It was nice to see a large range of ages come out and get down to such amazing bands.
-Review and Pictures by Shannon Nallan-