With vocal harmonies that can only come from a family, and an obvious love for each other and their music, The McDades’ sound is immersed in the spirit of improvisation. Featuring both energetic instrumentals and sensitive vocals performed in English and French, this compelling and dynamic group “find their groove somewhere between a down-home kitchen party, a jazzy after hours club, and a folk festival.” — London Free Press

• “One of the most versatile and innovative groups in Canada... The by-the-book musician would find themselves at a loss when confronted with the breadth & depth of The McDades sound.” — Tom Murray, Penguin Eggs
• “In The McDades’ music, strong vocals in English and French are complemented by agile fiddling that draws on classical and jazz lines, moody low whistle and soprano saxophone, and complex and literate bass playing backed by guitar and multi-ethnic percussion. Their work is full of side trips and improvisations, but always tight and smooth. -- Tom Nelligan, Dirty Linen
• “These Canadians are skilled musicians who play and sing as harmoniously as a family... they’re a tight quintet that punches through the boundaries of traditional music. The Dizzy Gillespie of the Irish tin whistle, Jeremiah McDade, explored the extremes of his instrument, sliding notes and producing multiphonics with his flying fingers. Shannon’s confident fiddling led the band, her fluent technique and great dynamic contrasts proving excellent musicianship.” — Gail Wein, Washington Post
• “As The McDades closed the opening night... most of the heat was finally up on stage... The McDades found their groove somewhere between a down-home kitchen party, a jazzy after-hours club and a folk festival... blazing and soothing.” — James Reaney, London Free Press
• (their début release) “For Reel will give its listeners an adrenaline rush and leave them in a blissful state. Then if they’re smart, they will hit the replay button and take another musical journey with the McDades.” — Patti-Lynn Herrington, Cranky Crow World Music
• “Cool tunes with a Celtic root, but much wider inspiration and intentions from this smart, chic Canadian five-piece. Spot-on playing, keen band production and a spirit of adventure mark it as more than just another exercise in giving old melodies contemporary resonance. This kicks!” — fRoots (UK)
• “With vocal harmonies that can only come from a family band and an obvious love for each other and their music, the McDades stage presentation consists of living room warmth with excellent musicianship. With a nice mixture of accessible instrumentals, vocal songs and more adventurous pieces, each member of the band is showcased throughout the evening. The McDades can perform in both French and English and are a festival programmers dream for all the variety they can add to workshops!” — Doug Cox, Artistic Director, Vancouver Island Music Fest