Sabai

’I have seen Miranda Swift and Fiona Raggatt perform as a duo on a couple of occasions in the past, so when Miranda informed me that they would be playing the back room of The Carriers Quarters as a four piece I was interested to see how they would sound. As a duo they seemed able to combine eclectic musical styles and clever vocal harmonies in an effortless and interesting way, so adding a back line made me wonder how their style might have evolved. What I found was a rhythm section provided by Tom Everett (Drums) and Roy Jackson (Bass) that have afforded Miranda and Fiona the luxury of being able to relax and enjoy what they do, even more than before. Throughout the entire evening the drums and bass provided a solid and rhythmical driving backbone that has now supplied a template for both girls to give their songs so much more and as a result actually improve their performance.
Sabai have a style that is solidly rooted in folk, but during the course of the evening they weaved a varied and tangled path through jazz, reggae, Latin and rock without sounding disjointed or messy. On the contrary, it was very clear that they ’own’ their own sound and furthermore, understand where to take it.
The original material was cleverly arranged, with honest and at times gritty lyrics, sang with good old-fashioned feeling and honest emotion. "Smokey Bar" which, judging by her performance, Fiona enjoyed singing immensely and "Arisaig", introduced as a song about pirates, were the standouts for me.
It will be interesting to see where the influence of drums and bass will take Sabai. On this showing I’d say onwards and upwards. In the slightly cramped but warm atmosphere of The Carriers Quarters, they delivered an energetic and accomplished performance, which was enjoyed by an engrossed audience. I for one look forward to their next gig.’
Craig Richie - Leither magazine
Sabai's founding members Fiona and Miranda met at a house party while both living in Northern Thailand 8 years ago and have been playing music together ever since. After years on the road they decided to bring their music to the western world where they hoped to find more inspiration, and ultimately, a wider audience. Two years ago the duo moved to Edinburgh, and have been on the scene locally since then.
December 2007 saw the addition of Tom and Roy, and since their first gigs together it's become obvious that the 4 have created a sound that really works. They've been going from strength to strength, recently performing at the Acoustic Festival of Britain 2008 before a very appreciative audience.
Sabai is a brilliant band to watch live. The interaction between the 2 girls is something that can only have come from many years of playing together. And the bass and drums carry the tunes, making you want to sway, clap your hands, or just get up and boogie.
Sabai is a Thai word which is often used, meaning take it easy, relax, feeling fine.
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