Single flashback

Skydiggers - A Penny More [1992]

There is a lot of CanCon lore tied up in the story of Skydiggers.

• Principals Josh Finlayson and Andy Maize attended a songwriting circle put on in Toronto by Andrew Cash. Cash recommended his brother, Peter Cash to the pair.

• The group were managed along the way by former Spoons drummer Derrick Ross.

• Parts of the Restless record were recorded at Grant Avenue Studio in Hamilton, owned by legendary producer Daniel Lanois.

PS - I wrote about Lanois a little while ago:

Skydiggers sound is quite varied. They call it “ countryfolkrockin’ ” themselves. This album has The Byrds flavours for me and some Stephen Stills, too.

Reviewing the Skydiggers singles chart history reveals something you don’t see very often. Of their four charting 90s singles, each one performed better than the last. Small sample size, but I don’t recall seeing this when researching any of my other posts!

A Penny More - peaked #26, 1992

Couldn’t find a trace of the original music video, though I swear there was one. This is likely due to the absolute fiasco that befell the band and their masters when their label FRE went bust.

Still Restless (The Lost Tapes) was pieced together in 1999 if you’re looking for an album to enjoy.

In any event, this performance sees a newer iteration of the group performing at the iconic Massey Hall in Toronto. The musicianship is tight and the song itself is still flawless.

Sadly, the theme of busting your ass and still being broke is maybe more relevant than ever.

Feel You Closer - did not chart

SEX! Now that I have your attention…

I was able to find the somewhat steamy video for second single Feel You Closer. Written by Peter Cash, the tune is short and straightforward.

Accusations - did not chart

Now, had I been A+R and the decision was mine, this would have been the second single.

The album’s leadoff track has lovely, jangle guitar and some interesting chord changes. Maize’s vocals are fantastic and there’s a slight hint of R.E.M. maybe?

I’m delighted to report that Skydiggers are still going strong, with new music and tour dates still coming regularly.