By Talin Hartounian, Oct 14th 2011

 

Voted Best New Artist at the 2011 San Diego Music Awards, Sister Speak not only earned their title but surpassed all expectationsduring their showcase performance at Bar Eleven, the latest San Diego music venue. It was an intimate setting with the stage only a few feet away from their biggest fans, and the laid back duo – comprised of Chicago transplants Sherri-Anne and Samantha Cathcart – set an eclectic tone with their partial rock and partial blues vibes. Whether they were playing guitar or accompanying the other on percussions, the two complimented each other well (sending each other looks of approval during favorite moments in songs) and in doing so captivating the audience with every note and every lyric during their set.

Though their voices were distinctly different individually, the dynamic between the two was incomparable. Songs like “Lose Control” and “My Baby” made it nearly impossible to uncover where ones voice ended and the other’s began. Surprisingly, the synchronized voices and the soothing interplay of guitars did not overshadow the lyrical content of their songs.

The seemingly soft spoken duo was not afraid to address real issues within their music by calling attention to the nation’s problems and enticing people to take action and gain back control of their lives. Even what was anticipated to be a cheesy love song, the somewhat more upbeat one of their collection “My Baby” was a pleasant surprise, with soulful undertones and lyrical edge that remained true to their style, even as a long song.