The Halifax Musicphile reviews In the Dead Of Winter

Let me start by saying that I love Ria Mae’s music. I know, I know, I’m not the only one. Mae’s debut full-length album, Under Your Skin, won the 2012 East Coast Music Award for Pop Recording of the Year, and her latest single “Leaving Today” is nominated as Song of the Year at the 2013 East Coast Music Awards.

Prior to Thursday night, I had never seen Mae play live. Because of this, hers was my most anticipated performance at this years In The Dead of Winter festival.

The wait was worth it. While watching Mae perform (accompanied by Margot Durling, who provided “perfect harmony”), I kept wondering “how is she not an international star?”

Mae combines Jonny Rotten attitude with Sarah McLachlan vocals. It is a fascinating combination to witness. Add to this a stand up comedy routine that would allow Mae to headline a comedy festival and being accompanied on stage by some marvelous musicians, and I was left with a show that I never wanted to end. Mae finished her show to rousing applause.

Aside from being joined by Durling, Mae was joined on-stage for “Under Your Skin” by Nova Scotia’s “next big thing” Mo Kenney (whose debut album was released last year to critical acclaim). Mae was also joined by Ambition (“Take Your Clothes Off”), Natasha Peach (“Leaving Today”) and Folly & The Hunter (“Titanium”). It was the perfect way to end this exceptional first night of the IDOW festival.

To read the complete review from The Halifax Musicphile for IDOW’s Thursday night at The Company House, please visit their website [click here].