Sadness – the highly prolific Illinois blackgaze project crafted by Damián Ojeda – has been on our radar here at Roadburn HQ for several years. Having existed only as a studio project for the majority of its existence, when we saw some grainy footage online of their first live performance in Chicago back in 2024 our hearts collectively skipped a beat. Could a live performance in Europe be a possibility? Would they be at all interested in playing Roadburn? We made some tentative enquiries but it has taken until now – a full two years later – to secure the goods. So it is with much anticipation that we’re thrilled to announce the first European show from Sadness, with us at Roadburn.
For the uninitiated, the Sadness back catalogue is a dense beast to navigate. Thankfully, the good folk at Bandcamp put together a guide to some of the essential Sadness sounds. Read on to be steered dutifully passed key touchpoints and recognisable references (Have A Nice Life, Deafheaven. Smashing Pumpkins). Being able to bounce off familiar names is a great place to get your footing, however, sinking into the deep end is where you’ll find whatever it is that your heart is seeking tonight. From the majestic, ethereal crescendos to the bleak, blasting frenetics, every move that Sadness makes is drenched in emotion.
The band comments: “Sadness is overjoyed by the opportunity to play such a highly regarded music event. The enthusiasm shared by the entire band cannot be overstated and until the day arrives that we stand on that stage we will be eagerly and impatiently waiting for such a glorious time”
As the band continues to morph into a fully-fledged touring band – with plenty of shows in the USA to keep them busy until April – we await their arrival in Europe with bated breath. It’s an honour to host thir first show on this side of the ocean, and a reminder to us that sometimes silently willing things into being seems to be more effective than some might assume.