Saskatoon-based band The Steadies is on tour for one reason: the Errington Hall.
“You guys are the reason we’re doing this,” said founder, frontman and former member of Wide Mouth Mason, Earl Pereira.
According to Pereira, the co-ordinators at the hall booked The Steadies to play the upcoming gig last year and the group decided they didn’t want to make the long trip just for one show. So, they’re currently in the middle of a two week tour through the Rockies and down to the Island, where Errington will be their last stop.
Taking the long road isn’t something new for The Steadies, however. Ever the road warriors, the group regularly play 100 shows a year.
“I’m kind of old-school like that,” said Pereira, who spoke to The NEWS while en route to Kelowna. “Playing live is the best way to build a band and a following.”
It’s a modus operandi that has worked well for the group. Since their formation in 2010, the group has shared the stage with Ziggy Marley, The Roots, Blue Rodeo, The Wailers and more. They’ve also headlined a number of festivals, which Pereira said has been a particular goal for the group.
“We like to do shows that are more events,” he said, adding that they’re trying to steer away from doing bar shows where the music is not the main draw of the night. The reason: they want to play for people who are there to listen and to dance.
That desire is reflected in their music as well.
The Steadies take the popular Top 40 sound and mix it with rocksteady and reggae influences, creating what they’ve dubbed island rock. “No matter your mood, The Steadies pick you up and carry you to the beach in your mind, the club in your dreams, the place you go to clear your head and dance,” said their website.
Pereira also said the group often blends their original songs together with cover songs into a long, continuous dance tune.
“We can do 20 minutes without stopping,” he said. “We’re creating our own style.”
The Steadies are also solidifying their sounds at the moment. Drummer Lexie Miller is still a relatively new addition to the trio, having joined up with bassist Pereira and guitarist Justin “Juice” Lee last year when the previous drummer left to focus on another project.
“It’s really exciting right now,” said Pereira, who calls Miller one of the “most powerful” drummers he’s played with.
As such, Pereira promised a “high-energy show” with a “feel-good vibe.” Also, the hall’s music co-ordinator Val Dare said the floor will definitely be cleared for dancing. The Steadies will play at the Errington Hall on Saturday, April 25 starting at 8:30 p.m. Doors to the venue open at 8 p.m. Adult tickets are $20 and are available at Cranky Dog Music in Parksville, Heaven on Earth in Qualicum, Creekmore Coffee and Errington Store.
Tickets for children aged 13-18 are $10 and $5 for children aged 6-12 are $5 at the door. Children aged 5 years and under get in free.
