Concert Review/ Artist Close-up: Saintseneca


Saintseneca is big in talent and reserved in presence. They are not entertainers, but musicians that use their skills to speak for themmusicians that use their skills to speak for them. They are friendly and humbly gracious in their many thanks to their following. Yet, if you come to a Saintseneca show expecting flashy personalities, you have misunderstood this band. They are ones that rely on their musicianship to entrance audiences and focus on their blaring sound to reach the soul, particularly exuding themselves through guitar riffs.

Hearing Saintseneca is like hearing the return of 90’s rock. Zac Little can sound like the ghost of Kurt Cobain. His raspy, piercing, voice is perfect for those that enjoy lyrical melancholy. Although their new album Such Things is definitely their more “happier” sounding album, Saintseneca has gained a following from those that enjoy the sadder, grungier tones of the 90’s. I have always said that there is nothing like a good sad song, and Zac Little has the voice to deliver the vulnerability of pain. Yet, what makes him a shining star of this band is his exceptional guitar skills. When he riffs on his guitar, he turns the instrument’s strings into pioneers of discord. As he tosses and turns with the guitar, you feel like he is using it to release his inner chaos. This point is the strongest aspect of their live show because each riff is a never before heard, musical addition to their album’s songs. Hearing “Maya 31,” “Such Things,” and “Bad Ideas” with this added flare escalates the rock n’ roll liberation they offer. Moreover,  watching Little’s bond with his guitar is like witnessing a human love story. It escalates the band’s freeing-garage like style.

Such Things (Album Stream)
There is something raw about Saintseneca’s talent and live show. They are pure in their capacities and eagerness to display them. They have a street vibe to them that makes their music appeal to those hungry for soul-sustaining music. They look like a group of young men and women that would play an excellent show in the corner of a street or a massive stadium just as long as they get to play. It is that love for making music that makes listeners hungry for their sound. No band member falls behind in showing their skills, and it is the history of these members that makes this band intriguing to watch.
Saintseneca has had a few musicians cross its path because of its open basement feel. They are a welcomed presence to talented, seasoned artists, particularly of the Ohio area, whom are interested by their open roster. This allows each of their albums to feel like a stand-alone, despite the sheer 90’s vibe that connects them.  This openness also gives them an approachability to listeners whom will always be in awe by their consistent growth as musicians. Again, their newest album, Such Things, is proof of their growing appeal and desire to expand as a band for a wider indie rock base.
Sainseneca performed on April 14, 2016 at Webster Hall in New York City. Here is their official website, and you can buy their album here.