Sadu says busy summer strengthened band but required boundaries

The band Sadu says a summer of frequent performances left its members feeling that they had to be available to everyone, prompting them to set clearer boundaries. The experience also helped them grow and become stronger, the group told ETV’s “Hommik Anuga,” ERR reported.

Sadu has played just under 90 concerts over the past year. Last autumn, the band described itself as being in the early, exhilarating stage of a relationship. Now, vocalist Sandra Sillamaa said, the excitement has matured into a decision to build a life together. Fellow vocalist Sofia-Liis Liiv said the members still look forward to spending time together, but that being in a band also means making a deeper commitment.

At times last summer, the group performed six concerts a week. Sillamaa said the pace made her want to retreat to home, her children and close friends. She also described feeling that the band belonged to everyone, as people approached them for hugs and shared painful personal stories.

The members said they decided at the start of the summer not to sign autographs or take photos after concerts so they could look after themselves. Liiv stressed that the decision was not because they did not appreciate their audience, but because the band had to set limits on what it could give.

Guitarist and songwriter Frederik Küüts said the band’s work depended not only on its four members but also on the team working behind the scenes. He said audiences also helped shape Sadu at its concerts.

The band has received several awards during the roughly 18 months it has been active, Liiv said. Its second album, “Teine vaatus” (“Second act”), is due out next week. Drummer Robert Leht said the record was made differently, with particular emphasis on drums.

Sadu has performed in South Korea and Belgium, and has a trip to Riga ahead. Sillamaa said international expansion is not currently a priority, but the band welcomes opportunities to play elsewhere and see how its music is received.