The musical legacy of Dallas Good, the celebrated frontman of the Canadian band The Sadies, will continue with the release of his final album, Were “The Watchtowers”, on April 18th. The album, a collaboration with Richard Reed Parry of Arcade Fire, is set to be released as part of Record Store Day, with a wider release planned to follow. This posthumous release offers a poignant glimpse into the creative partnership between Good and Parry, and promises a unique sonic experience for fans of both artists. The project is particularly special as it includes contributions from a remarkable array of musical talents, including Margaret Atwood and Neko Case.
Good, a highly respected figure in the alternative country and psychedelic music scenes, tragically passed away in February 2023. Rolling Stone reported at the time that the cause of death was heart failure. The Sadies, known for their innovative blend of country, rock, and experimental sounds, had a significant impact on the Canadian music landscape and garnered a dedicated international following. The release of Were “The Watchtowers” serves as a powerful reminder of Good’s enduring artistry and his influence on contemporary music. The album represents a culmination of a decade-long creative process, a testament to the deep connection between Good and Parry.
A Decade in the Making: The Genesis of Were “The Watchtowers”
Richard Reed Parry described the creation of Were “The Watchtowers” as a remarkably slow and deliberate process. According to Parry, the album was written and recorded over ten years, evolving through “tiny, joyous flourishes of activity a couple times a year.” This unconventional approach allowed for a unique exploration of “cosmic, psychedelic Americana sounds,” building upon the foundation laid by Parry’s production operate on The Sadies’ 2022 album, Colder Streams. The album’s extended gestation period reflects a commitment to artistic vision and a willingness to embrace a non-traditional timeline. The result is a collection of songs that feel both expansive and intimate, capturing the essence of Good’s musical spirit.
The album’s release via Yep Roc Records, a label known for its commitment to quality Americana and roots music, further underscores its artistic significance. Yep Roc Records has a history of supporting innovative and critically acclaimed artists, making it a fitting home for this unique collaboration. As an “RSD First” release, Were “The Watchtowers” will initially be available in a limited run of 900 LPs on April 18th, coinciding with Record Store Day. This exclusive release is designed to celebrate the independent record store community and provide fans with a tangible connection to the music. The limited initial pressing is expected to be highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
An All-Star Collaboration: Guest Appearances and Fan Involvement
Were “The Watchtowers” is notable for its impressive list of guest contributors, showcasing the breadth of Good and Parry’s musical connections. The album features appearances from literary icon Margaret Atwood, acclaimed singer-songwriter Neko Case, and a diverse range of musicians including Kurt Vile, Yo La Tengo, Jim Jarmusch, John Doe, Jon Spencer, Scott McCaughey, and Gary Louris. This collaborative spirit reflects the inclusive and experimental nature of the project. The inclusion of such diverse talents highlights the respect Good and Parry commanded within the music community.
Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of the album is the inclusion of a fan choir on the closing track, “Not in the World.” Parry previously invited fans to contribute vocal recordings, resulting in a choir of over 500 participants. This unique element underscores the deep connection between The Sadies and their fanbase, transforming the album into a truly communal effort. The fan choir adds a layer of emotional resonance to the song, creating a powerful and moving conclusion to the album. The participation of so many fans demonstrates the lasting impact of Good’s music and the desire to honor his memory.
Track Listing and Anticipated Sound
The tracklist for Were “The Watchtowers” offers a glimpse into the album’s sonic landscape:
- A1. Alone Alone
- A2. Echo the Part
- A3. The Brightest Light
- A4. Your Hand and Mine
- A5. There’s Time
- B1. Hope I Dream Again
- B2. Are You Gone (feat. Margaret Atwood)
- B3. The Hole in the Wall (feat. Neko Case)
- B4. Not in the World
Based on Parry’s description and the involvement of the featured artists, Were “The Watchtowers” is expected to be a richly textured and emotionally resonant album. The combination of Good’s signature songwriting with Parry’s experimental production style promises a unique and captivating listening experience. The album’s exploration of “cosmic, psychedelic Americana sounds” suggests a blend of traditional roots music with innovative sonic elements. Fans can anticipate an album that is both deeply personal and broadly appealing, showcasing the best of both artists’ talents.
Dallas Good’s Legacy and The Sadies’ Impact
Dallas Good’s contributions to the Canadian music scene extended beyond his work with The Sadies. He was also a respected producer and collaborator, working with a wide range of artists. The Sadies were known for their energetic live performances and their willingness to push the boundaries of genre. Their influence can be heard in the work of many contemporary artists. The band’s unique blend of country, rock, and experimental sounds helped to redefine the landscape of alternative music in Canada. Good’s passing was a significant loss for the music community, and his legacy continues to inspire musicians and fans alike.
The release of Were “The Watchtowers” provides an opportunity to celebrate Good’s life and work, and to discover a new facet of his artistic vision. The album’s collaborative nature and its inclusion of a fan choir underscore the importance of community and the power of music to connect people. It is a fitting tribute to a musician who dedicated his life to pushing creative boundaries and inspiring others. The album serves as a reminder of the enduring power of music to heal, to connect, and to transcend loss.
Following the Record Store Day release, Were “The Watchtowers” will be made available through wider distribution channels, allowing fans around the world to experience this unique collaboration. Further details regarding the wider release will be announced by Yep Roc Records in the coming weeks. Fans are encouraged to check the Yep Roc Records website for updates and information on where to purchase the album. The release of this album is a significant event for fans of The Sadies, Richard Reed Parry, and the broader Americana music community.
The next confirmed date related to this release is April 18th, the official Record Store Day date. Fans are encouraged to support their local record stores and participate in this special event. We invite you to share your thoughts on Dallas Good’s music and the upcoming release of Were “The Watchtowers” in the comments below.
