TURF 2015 Club Bonus Series: Sate at The Horseshoe Tavern - Concert Pictures

Toronto's Sate comes from a strong musical lineage. She's the daughter of Tony and Grammy Award-nominated icon Salome Bey, Canada’s First Lady of Blues. Having said that, her talent is all her own. It's presented forcefully, front and centre of the stage, with a band that grooves and rocks in equal measures, and songs that are empowering and powerful.

I was lucky enough to catch Sate twice during TURF, the Toronto Urban Roots Festival. The first show is featured here, and took place at The Legendary Horseshoe Tavern on September 17. Sate was sandwiched between New Brunswick's  Les Hôtesses d'Hilaire and headliners Fishbone.

As I stood stagefront, soaking up the incredible tunes and tangible energy flowing from the stage, I was feeling like Sate was my new favourite band. A feeling that would solidify itself by their performance on Sunday on the South Stage of the outdoor portion of TURF at Fort York, but I'm getting ahead of myself.

Sate leads the band with her amazing voice and captivating presence. The band backs her up and takes the spotlight as needed with the heavy riffs, shredding and wailing guitar leads, super-solid and tight rhythm section (so enthusiastic that the bass player broke his strap pin right off his bass) and classic keyboard sounds. This is a full powerhouse musical package. And yes, we all left thoroughly sated.

Angelo from Fishbone even came out to enjoy some tunes, sitting on the edge of the stage, as enraptured by Sate as the rest of us. To return the favour, Sate came out to rock with Fishbone during their set.

Check out some tunes and make it a point to catch Sate and the band next time you have the chance. You won't regret it.

"Warrior"

"What Did I Do"