In the world of alternative country, few names resonate as deeply as Dallas Good, the late founding member of The Sadies. With his distinctive guitar work, rich vocals, and undeniable charisma, Good was a driving force behind one of Canada’s most cherished bands. As we look back at Colder Streams, the band’s 11th studio album and the last to feature Good before his untimely passing in February 2022, we are reminded of the indelible mark he left on the music scene.
Released on July 22, 2022, Colder Streams arrived at a time when the world was grappling with the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic. The album was primarily recorded at Skybarn studio in Montreal, with the band navigating social distancing measures by working in pairs or solo. The environment may have been challenging, but it also led to a raw and poignant exploration of sound that would become a hallmark of the album. Under the watchful eye of producer Richard Reed Parry, The Sadies crafted an album that feels both intimate and expansive, a fitting tribute to Good’s artistic vision.
In a twist of darkly humorous fate, just months before his passing, Good penned a tongue-in-cheek “anti-biography” for the band’s profile on Yep Roc, declaring Colder Streams “by far, the best record that has ever been made by anyone. Ever.” Such confidence encapsulated not only Good’s playful spirit but also his unwavering belief in the band’s collective artistry. And while we may never know if he truly believed that hyperbolic statement, the critical reception of the album certainly backs it up. Vish Khanna of Exclaim! awarded Colder Streams a rare 10 out of 10, asserting it punctuated and cemented the legacy of both the band and its beloved frontman.
Despite his absence, The Sadies forged ahead, motivated not only by the desire to honor Good but also by the profound need to create. Drummer Mike Belitsky described the band’s bond, saying, “When something shitty happens in our lives, we always had the band.” The decision to tour in December 2022, albeit as a trio, was a testament to their resilience and a celebration of the music that Good had worked tirelessly to create. Although they were performing without a full-time replacement for Good, guest guitarist Daniel Romano joined them for select shows, offering a glimpse into the band’s ongoing evolution.
Colder Streams showcased The Sadies at their finest, capturing the electrifying essence that had long defined their legendary live performances. Pat King of Paste noted that the album felt both “immaculate and voyeuristic,” a testament to the band’s ability to translate their raw energy into a studio recording. With standout tracks like “Stop and Start” and the hauntingly beautiful “All The Good,” the album serves as a reminder of the deep emotional currents that flowed through Good’s songwriting.
In recognition of its excellence, Colder Streams won the Juno Award for Adult Alternative Album of the Year in 2023 and was shortlisted for the Polaris Music Prize, solidifying Good’s enduring impact on Canadian music. It’s a bittersweet legacy—one that resonates with fans and musicians alike, echoing the sentiment that while Dallas Good may be gone, his spirit continues to pulse through the music he helped create.
As we remember Dallas Good, we celebrate not only the man but the music he left behind. Colder Streams is more than just an album; it’s a farewell, a tribute, and a testament to a life dedicated to the power of song. The Sadies may move forward without him, but the echoes of his genius will forever reverberate in the hearts of those who were touched by his artistry. In the words of Good himself, this is indeed one of the best records ever made—because in it, we find the essence of a true musical pioneer.