Dave Sadler

Singer and guitarist Dave Sadler was raised in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, a town that was also home to blues legends Big Bill Broonzy and Cedell Davis. Sadler himself is aspiring to the same high standards as his forebears, as evidenced by his new album, Matchbox, a solid collection of 10 hard-hitting, guitar-centric modern blues and blues-rock songs.

Matchbox comprises five original tracks, written by Sadler himself, and five well-known covers. The covers are a fair reflection of Sadler’s approach to the music. Kicking off with rocky version of Koko Taylor’s “I Got All You Need”, the horns on the original are replaced by Sadler’s over-driven rhythm guitar with over-dubbed lead guitar featuring a series of artificial harmonics suggestive of something ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons might play. It’s a cracking start to the album. Carl Perkins’ “Matchbox” is played as a mid-paced shuffle with Duane Allman-esque slide guitar and a stop-chorus that hints of Elmore James’ “I Can’t Hold Out”. The Meters’ “Cissy Strut” has an extended, jazzy opening before the classic instrumental lick arrives, doubled by the guitar and the bass. “People Get Ready” is given an instrumental treatment and “Killing Floor” is played pretty straight, although with a rockier edge than the Wolf’s original, particularly in the use of artificial harmonics again. None of the covers is played identically to the original. Sadler respects the originals but he is not afraid to re-interpret them or take them in a different direction. As a result, he successfully breathes new life into each track.

Sadler’s own songs fit well with the covers. “Junior’s Jam” is a driving instrumental based on a riff not dissimilar to “Born In Chicago” over which Sadler cleverly lays an sliding chord melody. It provides Sadler the opportunity to stretch out on guitar for three minutes, which he does with impressive energy and intensity. His other instrumental, “Fourth Street Ruckus”, is an upbeat, swinging horn-driven beauty of a song, with lovely harp from Roly Platt. “Satisfaction Guaranteed” is a mid-paced, funky track, with excellent fluttering harmonica from Sadler himself. “You Put Me Out” is a flat-out rock’n’roller with roaring slide guitar and uncredited piano and organ to the fore. “You Should’a Known” also displays funky blues influences with wry lyrics explaining to a woman how his attempts to impress were consistently being foiled: “I found my old suit, I did my best. I went down to Walmart to buy you that dress. Told your little brother, that he couldn’t tag along. Got a table for two at Susie Wong’s. You should have known, known, known, known, you should have known.”

Sadler is a fine singer and guitar player and he receives solid, swinging support throughout from a variety of musicians, including Jim McCarty, Frank Biggs, Jesse Rocha and Mel Sarreal (drums), Randy Landas, Dave Grant and James Ryan (bass), Marvin Taylor (drums, bass and guitar), Pat Murdoch (guitar), Phil Clark (organ) and Dan Cipriano (horns).

Matchbox is a highly enjoyable collection of modern electric blues, centred around Sadler’s muscular guitar playing. Warmly recommended.

Reviewer Rhys Williams lives in Cambridge, England, where he plays blues guitar when not holding down a day job as a technology lawyer or running around after his children. He is married to an American, and speaks the language fluently, if with an accent. - BLUES BLAST MAGAZINE -by Rhys Williams

"Matchbox" is the new album from Dave Sadler, to the tune of Carl Lee Perkins, which has been covered by countless. Even the Beatles played it in their early years and also Sugar Boy and The Sinners list Matchbox on their setlist ... To me, the CD can be called "Partytime with Dave Sadler”. That might cover it even better. Sadler has delivered "Matchbox", a festive, uncomplicated, genuine and highly danceable CD, packed with rock & roll, a few danceable blues songs, a couple of instrumentals and a cool down for when the party is over.

Besides the covers (Willie Dixon's "I Got All You Need," "Matchbox" by Perkins, "Cissy Strut" by The Meters, Chester Burnet's 'Killing Floor' and -yes- 'People Get Ready' by Curtis Mayfield), there are five original songs on "Matchbox". Among other instrumentals ("Junior's Jam” and “Fourth Street Ruckus”, complete with tight horns and harmonica), an uptempo funky piece (" Satisfaction Guaranteed') and “You Put Me Out”, a straightforward piece of rock & roll in the tradition of Johnnie Johnson. Fifth original song, “You Should'a Known"(track 8) is the blue prelude to the subtle instrumental version of “People Get Ready” by Curtis Mayfield. Then the party is over and we can go home tired -but satisfied.

Do not expect complicated, super freaky and original music, but a festive CD of a seasoned player with a nice full sound, which will remind you of the sound of Jimmy Thackery, for example. Sadler has with his friends and audible pleasure made a nice CD. Matchbox is simply a fun CD for anyone who loves well-crafted rock & roll and blues. Party!

Peter "Blewzzman" Lauro, an American critic, puts it like this "If Rock'Em, Sock'em rhythm fueled, smokin 'blues lights your fire, then you need to get your hands on a copy of "Matchbox ". You can do that by going to www.davesadlermusic.com.

Also, an excellent summation for me. - BLUES MAGAZINE -By Fons Delemarre

Dave Sadler is one of those musicians who grew up in a musical household and, as his biography states, he's even got some of Johnny Cash's blood running through his musical veins. Regardless of how artists like Dave learn to do what they do - and in Dave's case, he's self taught - I still refer to it as learning through osmosis. Or more commonly, being a "chip off the old block".

Growing up on the edge of the Delta, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, Dave had an opportunity to be exposed to the regions predominant music - the blues - and once he was, there was no looking back. With early influences such as B. B. and Elmore, and later on the likes of Clapton, Cray and SRV, Dave's style of blues tends to be an excellent blend of straight up blues and blues rock.

"Matchbox" is Dave's third release and of its ten tracks, five are originals. On it, Dave Sadler - on guitars, bass, vocals and harmonica - is joined by: Jim McCarty, Frank Briggs, Mel Sarreal and Jesse Rocha on drums; Randy Landas, James Ryan and Dave Grant on bass; Phil Clarke on keyboards; Roly Platt on harmonica; Pat Murdoch on guitar; Dan Cipriano on horns; and Marvin Taylor on drums, bass and guitar. Sounds to me like there should be some smokin' rhythm coming up, let's go check it out.

"Junior's Jam" is one of four instrumentals that can be heard on "Matchbox" and as I expected, this original track is full of solid rhythm. This track appeared on Mary4Music Presents: Keeping the Blues Alive - Volume Six and I'll just stick with what I had to say about it then..."Junior's Jam is an all-out, full throttle instrumental with everyone kicking ass. Led by some seriously intense guitar work by Dave and a drummer - Jim McCarty - who's totally trying to wear himself out, this one totally rocks. Good old smokin' blues".

On "Satisfaction Guaranteed", another original, Dave turns the bass duties over to James Ryan and along with some monster drum work by Mel Sarreal, they once again keep the rhythm smoking. Add to that Dave belting out some of the discs best vocals, and blowing the hell out of a harp, and you've got another of the discs many highlights.

The fierce musical energy these guys are putting out remains at full tilt on "You Put Me Out", yet another Dave Sadler original. This one features Dave showcasing some amazing harmonica skills, Phil doing the same with some freaking crazy piano and organ work and with what's become every tracks common denominator - more rockin' rhythm.

"Fourth Street Ruckus" is another of Dave's original instrumentals and this track appeared on Volume One of the Mary4Music compilation CD series. Once again, what I had to say then is what I'll say now.... "Fourth Street Ruckus could have also been called Fourth Street Melee, Fourth Street Free For All or Fourth Street Donnybrook. Basically, they all mean that all hell is breaking loose and that's exactly what's going on musically on the five minute instrumental. Leading the way with relentless guitar playing, Dave and the band are kickin' ass".

Having had lots of smokers before it, the disc closes out with a very relaxing instrumental. It's a cover of one of the best songs ever written. As a matter of fact, Rolling Stone magazine named it the 24th greatest song of all time, it's 20th on their list of the one 100 greatest guitar tracks and it's been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. I'm talking about Curtis Mayfield's Gospel influenced composition titled "People Get Ready". On this rendition, Dave - who's also playing bass on the track - surely does his part in living up to the reputation the song has for it's guitar work. His playing is immaculate and flawless. Other highlights on this one include hymnal organ effects and perfectly subtle drum and cymbal work. Thirsting for more, this 2:57 masterpiece received many replays.

Other tracks on "Matchbox" include: "I Got All You Need", "Matchbox", "Cissy Strut", "You Should'a Known" and "Killing Floor".

If rock'em, sock'em, rhythm fueled, smokin' blues lights your fire, then you need to get your hands on a copy of "Matchbox". You can do that by going to www.davesadlermusic.com. While you're there, please tell him his friend the Blewzzman sent you. While you're at it also tell him I'm looking very forward to that beer.....and the shot of tequila. - ATLANTA BLUES SOCIETY - MARY4MUSIC - Peter "Blewzzman" Lauro

With "Matchbox" Dave Sadler, a Guitarist from Pine Bluff (Arkansas) sets out his second album: Ten songs, five of which from his own pen, between blues, rock and a little jazz. Some albums you should own solely because of a single. On "Matchbox", "Fourth Street Ruckus "is worth all the money: Driven by a full horn section chasing Sadler’s guitar and providing duels with the hearty harp of the Canadian, Roly Platt. Even without words, the piece is clearly a smash hit!

Which of course does not mean that you could forget the rest of the album. Whether Sadler plays songs from the repertoire of Howlin Wolf (Killing Floor), Curtis Mayfield (People Get Ready), Blind Lemon Jefferson/Carl Perkins (Matchbox) or plays his own funky tracks, if he doesn’t convict with singing, his guitar is always outstanding. This, in turn, is but a personal opinion. - WASSER-PRAWDA MAGAZINE -Raimund Nitzsche

"Damn Dave!! Nice stuff there brother!"
-Big Llou Johnson (voice of B.B. King's Bluesville, Sirius XM)

"Wow! Very professionally made video and the sound rocks!!"
-Martin Clarke (host of The Blues Session)

"Beautiful sounds, man!"
-Sugar Blue (Grammy Award winning harmonica player)

"Hey Dave...great sound man!"
-Scott Holt (guitarist formerly with Buddy Guy)

"Very original, love the horns and guitar... .Keep on keeping on...
I will be looking forward to hearing your new recording"
-Bob Putignano (President, New York Blues and Jazz Society)

"WOW! Love this sound! Really tight. Very happy to have you on the station."
-Sheila Cain (Blues City radio) - Various

'Fade To Blue' holds many trump cards. With a broad range of bluesrock, jazzy ballads, reggae and funk, this album sought blues inspiration from many places. Arkansas/Mississippi, Louisiana/Texas and Chicago-influences merge into a homogeneous whole, in which Dave Sadler, guitar man from Arkansas, feels at home like a fish in the water. Four instrumental numbers between a dozen songs, all of the hand of Sadler, guarantee a full hour of blues variety. Sadler not being bound by borders is also reflected in his lyrics in 'Shackles and Chains', a protest against everything that man fetters. 'Killing Game' is an indictment against the violence in Baghdad that separates families and children from a peaceful life. His powerful lyrics have been thought through, and are sung with a misleadingly serene voice. He accompanies himself with various guitars, bass, and from time to time with Honner bluesharp. A father of four children, he shows in his lyrics his concern for orphaned children and the dangers that threaten them.

Another high point is the presence of saxophonist, Dan Cipriano, who joins in four numbers with trombone, trumpet and sax. In 'Cold, Blowin' Wind his saxophone cries as a warning against the world of drug dealers. This renowned horn master has played with Wilson Pickett, Southside Johnny, Gary U. S. Bonds and Bruce Springsteen and enriches Dave's album. In addition, five other capable studio musicians contribute on the CD.

Dave's wife, Elizabeth, produced the project which was recorded at BluezArt Studio located in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. In addition to his occupation as an architect, he finds time to make music with a local group of musicians for benevolent concerts and other events. Coming from a musical family that included a piano teacher (his mother), he grew up listening to various forms of blues music on the radio. Instead of the practicing the latest rock hits, he chose Elmore James, Robert Cray and Buddy Guy as his imaginary teachers. In 'Rise Above', you hear an Eric Clapton influence. On 'Blues Night Special' he calls out the names of Big Bill Broonzy, Junior Walker, Howlin' Wolf, Luther Allison and Freddie King, all bluesmen for whom he bears a warm heart. Dave Sadler designed this album with solid and really versatile musical building stones that leave a colorful impression from 'Fade To Blue' till 'Blue Reggae'. –Marcie Rootstime (Belgium) 6.21.08
- Rootstime (Belgium)

"On Fade to Blue, Arkansas blues singer Dave Sadler offers up an eclectic mix of 16 guitar driven songs based in the blues/rock tradition of the Midwest. He’s an accomplished multi-instrumentalist and clearly knows what he’s doing on the guitar. Interestingly though, his voice reminded me of Morrissey right off the bat, an eccentric match to find on a blues album.

On “Shackles and Chains," Sadler wails out on the electric guitar while on the softer bluesy “Killing Game,” he provides a social commentary on poverty and war.

"A soldier stands his watch with a tear in his eye
Glances over his shoulder at a passerby
A dirty shame, this killing game ... "

Sadler also includes a slew of instrumental numbers on the album which showcase his mastery of the guitar. As well, he gets by with a little help from his friends such as prominent saxophonist, Dan Cipriano, whose playful exchanges on “Can’t Take It With You” is an instant listener’s delight....

...Sadler definitely has the voice and musicianship to stand apart from the crowd...."

Skott Freedman –Indie-Music.com Magazine
- Indie-Music.com Magazine

"On Fade to Blue, Arkansas blues singer Dave Sadler offers up an eclectic mix of 16 guitar driven songs based in the blues/rock tradition of the Midwest. He’s an accomplished multi-instrumentalist and clearly knows what he’s doing on the guitar. Interestingly though, his voice reminded me of Morrissey right off the bat, an eccentric match to find on a blues album.

On “Shackles and Chains," Sadler wails out on the electric guitar while on the softer bluesy “Killing Game,” he provides a social commentary on poverty and war.

"A soldier stands his watch with a tear in his eye
Glances over his shoulder at a passerby
A dirty shame, this killing game ... "

Sadler also includes a slew of instrumental numbers on the album which showcase his mastery of the guitar. As well, he gets by with a little help from his friends such as prominent saxophonist, Dan Cipriano, whose playful exchanges on “Can’t Take It With You” is an instant listener’s delight....

...Sadler definitely has the voice and musicianship to stand apart from the crowd...."

Skott Freedman –Indie-Music.com Magazine
- Indie-Music.com Magazine

1. Describe the early years of your musical roots and how your talent was nurtured.

My mother was a classically trained piano and voice instructor so I was surrounded by music growing up. However, I guess you could say that I sort of rebelled against learning to read music. I would make mom play the pieces for me then play them back by ear rather that use the music. Bought a guitar at age twelve and quickly ditched the keyboard. I fell in love with the guitar and couldn't put it down.

2. Were there any events, people or catalysts that were musically influential?

I was fortunate enough to meet Jimmy Driftwood once and play with him. He was a neat guy. Even though his style of music is very different from what I now play, getting to visit with him in his home was a memorable experience. Early on I listened to a lot of blues musicians such as Elmore James, B.B. King and Buddy Guy. Blues influenced rock guitarists such as Eric Clapton, Johnny Winter and Stevie Ray Vaughn, to name a few, are also influences.

3. How would you describe your sound?

Guitar driven, blues/rock/jazz fusion maybe.

4. How many CDs have you released as a solo artist?

I have one solo release entitled Fade to Blue. It was released March, 2008 on my independent label, BluezArt Records.

5. What is the name of your latest CD and describe the creative process that went into it?

The Fade to Blue CD was a result of a number of late night recording/writing sessions. Fade to Blue was the first track written and recorded. The solo was largely improvisational and done in one take. The other tracks just fell into place. All lyrics are from real life experiences at various points in my life.

6. Where did you record your latest CD and who was involved in the recording and production of it?

Much of the CD was recorded in my own studio utilizing a Yamaha 16 track digital audio workstation. I laid down a number of the rhythm section tracks myself. The horn sections were recorded by Dan Cipriano at his studio in New York. Note guitarist and composer, Jan Cyrka provided backing for the Fade to Blue track that was recorded at his studio in the U.K. Additional studio musicians from Rosewood Recording Studio also contributed.

7. How involved are you in the recording process of the projects you have worked on?

This project was very hands on for me. I did my own mixing and mastering.

8. How do you feel about playing to a live audience?

I really enjoy playing for live audiences.

9. What does your live set up consist of?

A custom Taylor T5 is used for most electric sounds. I also use a vintage Alvarez-Yairi DY62 C for acoustic work. The Taylor is generally run through a Line 6 Flextone, and alternately through a Genz-Benz Shenandoah.

10. Who does your booking? Are you under management?

Elizabeth Sadler, my partner in crime and better half, manages BluezArt Records and keeps me organized.

11. What are some of your favorite venues to play?

One of my favorite places to play, believe it or not, is the local women’s correctional unit. Playing there makes you feel like the music really means something to someone. Nothing playing to a captive audience!

Monica Yonge- Indieguitarist.com - IndieGuitarist.com

1. Describe the early years of your musical roots and how your talent was nurtured.

My mother was a classically trained piano and voice instructor so I was surrounded by music growing up. However, I guess you could say that I sort of rebelled against learning to read music. I would make mom play the pieces for me then play them back by ear rather that use the music. Bought a guitar at age twelve and quickly ditched the keyboard. I fell in love with the guitar and couldn't put it down.

2. Were there any events, people or catalysts that were musically influential?

I was fortunate enough to meet Jimmy Driftwood once and play with him. He was a neat guy. Even though his style of music is very different from what I now play, getting to visit with him in his home was a memorable experience. Early on I listened to a lot of blues musicians such as Elmore James, B.B. King and Buddy Guy. Blues influenced rock guitarists such as Eric Clapton, Johnny Winter and Stevie Ray Vaughn, to name a few, are also influences.

3. How would you describe your sound?

Guitar driven, blues/rock/jazz fusion maybe.

4. How many CDs have you released as a solo artist?

I have one solo release entitled Fade to Blue. It was released March, 2008 on my independent label, BluezArt Records.

5. What is the name of your latest CD and describe the creative process that went into it?

The Fade to Blue CD was a result of a number of late night recording/writing sessions. Fade to Blue was the first track written and recorded. The solo was largely improvisational and done in one take. The other tracks just fell into place. All lyrics are from real life experiences at various points in my life.

6. Where did you record your latest CD and who was involved in the recording and production of it?

Much of the CD was recorded in my own studio utilizing a Yamaha 16 track digital audio workstation. I laid down a number of the rhythm section tracks myself. The horn sections were recorded by Dan Cipriano at his studio in New York. Note guitarist and composer, Jan Cyrka provided backing for the Fade to Blue track that was recorded at his studio in the U.K. Additional studio musicians from Rosewood Recording Studio also contributed.

7. How involved are you in the recording process of the projects you have worked on?

This project was very hands on for me. I did my own mixing and mastering.

8. How do you feel about playing to a live audience?

I really enjoy playing for live audiences.

9. What does your live set up consist of?

A custom Taylor T5 is used for most electric sounds. I also use a vintage Alvarez-Yairi DY62 C for acoustic work. The Taylor is generally run through a Line 6 Flextone, and alternately through a Genz-Benz Shenandoah.

10. Who does your booking? Are you under management?

Elizabeth Sadler, my partner in crime and better half, manages BluezArt Records and keeps me organized.

11. What are some of your favorite venues to play?

One of my favorite places to play, believe it or not, is the local women’s correctional unit. Playing there makes you feel like the music really means something to someone. Nothing playing to a captive audience!

Monica Yonge- Indieguitarist.com - IndieGuitarist.com