Mary Lorson, the frontwoman whose taintly sweet vocals have surrounded the indie rock band Madder Rose since 1990, returned in early 2000 with a solo project Saint Low. Lorson was looking for another creative outlet and decided to take a break from Madder Rose in 1997, twisting the edgy indie stylings of her previous band's sound for a clear jazzy feel complete with funkadelic vibes and smooth pop hooks in Saint Low. And joining Lorson is a five-piece backing comprised of bassist Stahl Caso, violinist Joe Myer, pianist Michael Stark, vocalist Jennie Stearns, and drummer Zaun Marshburn. Saint Low signed with Thirsty Ear and issued a self-titled release in summer 2000. Lorson spent 2001 on the road, playing gigs with Willard Grant Conspiracy and SXSW. In between performing, she and Saint Low found time playing in the studio. Tricks For Dawn, which was released in March 2002, captures those sessions. ~ MacKenzie Wilson