By Rachel Bui
Sammy Rae & The Friends are currently on tour, with an album to be released before the end of the
year. The backdrop and stage setup evokes a “summer camp in the woods” vibe, befitting for a tour
titled, “CAMP.” As this was her homecoming show, it was to be expected that there was going to be a
special type of energy for the night.
Opener Funky Dawgz started the night on a fun note, blending covers with their original works. Their
brazen renditions of songs like “Unwritten” and “Water” brought joy to the audience, with everyone at
least grooving, if not dancing. Despite having a short set, the band primed the venue with a vitality that
was only going to be ramped up once the main act arrived on stage
The Friends entered the stage as if setting foot onto camp grounds, holding lanterns as they wandered
around the stage before getting into position. The band cued “Talk It Up,” and Sammy Rae teared on
stage with explosive, infectious energy. Throughout the night she sang with such bright, strong vocals
while strutting around the stage, it would be difficult to not be enamored with her as a performer. Her
charisma came off strong, and she connected with the audience from the start.
For the ballad “Living Room,” the band gathered in a semi-circle, conjuring an atmosphere of a fireside
singalong. This provided a cozy ambience as Rae belted out emotional lyrics to a captivated crowd. After
this soulful track, the band then kept the energy up for the rest of the night. Rae & The Friends also
performed “Thieves,” an upcoming single to be released Mar 8th and will be part of her upcoming debut
album.
Joyous, raucous, fun, Rae & the Friends served up an entertaining night, making it quite memorable. It
was a blast to see the band live, and I would highly recommend everyone to check them.
