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This Montreal-based project has been making wonderful damaged roots music in various incarnations since 1994, guided by the song-writing of singer/guitarist Gabe Levine. Charting a path through country and pop
traditions, always with a deft lyrical touch, Sackville has developed a highly original and evocative sound that distills a wide range of folk, rock and avant influences. They burst onto the scene with the release of the 8 song CD “Low Ebb” in April 1996. The group has the intensity of Slint crossed with the "slacker country ethic" of Palace. There is also a strong kin to such moody ramblers as Rex, Red Red Meat, and Scud Mountain Boys. On their 2nd release, “These Last Songs”, Sackville maintains the "urban country" feel, but with the addition of a second guitarist, they occasionally create a slight math rock feel. Still, the guitar riffs are still submerged in a thick melancholy, which makes Sackville one of Canada's most enjoyable bands. Before forming the band, most of the members played in the local DC style math rock band Howard North. Since 1996, they have released the 12 song “These Last Songs” on Mag Wheel, a CDEP on Constellation, and a split 7”45 with Chicago’s Handsome Family, before calling it quits in 2000. Violinist Gen Heistek is currently in Hanged Up, who have 2 albums out on Constellation, bass player Harris Newman has a solo CD out on Strange Attracters Audio House, and singer Gabe Levine will be appearing on a Constellation Records release, plus is working on solo stuff.
“From the opening line, “In the dead of winter of Sydney Mines…”, (problably the most effective opener since Robert Smith declared “It doesn’t matter if we all die” to set the mood for the Cure’s “Pornography”) you pretty much know what you are in for. You are in for one heck of a rocking-chair slow-down ho-down.” The Coast Dave Hayden
"Is it Dirty Three with vocals, or an acoustic Giant Sand? “Low Ebb” is the subtle, almost sinister side of psychedelia –a gentle but effective brain scrub that at times can make you doubt your senses." Magnet
“Sackville weave tales that are true and intricate. ”Low Ebb” is long on talent and authenticity.” Alternative Press Laurel Bowman
“Folksy, acoustic Americana, (Violin, mandolin and lap steel add to the sparse mix). Probably the best record to come from Canada that I’ve ever heard.” Tailspins George Kowalski
Discorgraphy:
“Low Ebb” CD Mag Wheel 1996
“These Last Songs” CD Mag Wheel 1997
“Principles of Science” CD Constellation 1999
Handsome Family split 7” 45 Mag Wheel 1999