The Brooklyn-based ensemble, Sammy Rae and The Friends brought their authentic, campy, fun selves to The Pageant on Friday, March 8, and created an uplifting, festive, joyous, kick-ass night for every devoted fan. St. Louis hosted the nineteenth night of the second leg of the band’s Camp Tour.
One of the first things Sammy Rae said was, “If you know you know, and if you don’t? Well, you’re about to find out.” And holy cow. What a night. Rae was right, if you didn’t know, you were in for a treat. And fans of all ages who already knew nearly burst with anticipation.
Adorned with various flora, the stage also had a tent set up in the background with lanterns glowing while band members (as well as many fans) dressed in either Boy Scout vests or casual, summer camp-like gear. The 90-minute set, delivered in high spirits, contained an upbeat, cheerful mixture of sounds that incorporate classic rock, folk, and funk sprinkled with some soul and jazz. A firecracker performer, Rae would deliver a high kick one minute and the next be sitting cross-legged at the edge of the stage tossing a beaded friendship bracelet to a devoted fan in the front row.
The lights, the visuals, the camaraderie, and the energy all contributed to a concert worthy to go down as a remarkable experience for all the happy campers in attendance. Songs included, “Follow Me Like the Moon,” “Luck of the Draw, “ Talk It Up,” and an updated version of “The Feeling.”
Austin-based Sir Woman, aka Kelsey Wilson, and accompaniment opened the night to the mostly seated room with a 35-minute set of Wilson’s stellar voice belting out soul/r&b/ with some gospel tossed in for good measure. The dynamic group performed several songs including two of their most played “Bitch” and “Highroad.”
The jubilant mood of the night made you feel as if you could walk on air and eventually float away to a carefree, magical land filled with bliss and contentment.
Find all photos from the night here https://bit.ly/SammyRFriends24cz
