The first time The Divorcees played Sault Ste. Marie way back in 2006, it was Friday the 13th and things just weren't going their way.
But the Moncton-based band of outlaws pushed through snow storms, cancelled gigs and the loss of an integral band member they nicknamed The Princess to deliver one heck of a boot-stompin' good time.
The band, now a five-piece and 100 percent Princess-free, returned to Loplops Gallery-Lounge Saturday night with a freshly pressed sophomore release, a richer sound and focused determination to win over every single heart in the room.
Mission accomplished, boys.
Not shy about flaunting their influences, The Divorcees' brand of honky-tonk outlaw country is as honest and steady as it gets, and is the perfect accompaniment to a straight shot of Jack and front man Alex Madsen's new buckskin boots.
After capturing the country recording of the year award at the 2008 East Coast Music Awards for their debut album You Ain't Gettin' My Country, The Divorcees had better reinforce their trophy shelf.
Slotted for release on May 5, 2009, Last of the Free Men brilliantly captures the band's live intensity and is destined to become a Canadian country classic.
They've done Hank, Johnny, Waylon and Willie mighty proud.