Stephen Simmons hit the rug a few minutes past 8pm and immediately had the audience immersed in his songs. As a songwriter, Stephen's vision is complex. Stephen featured many songs from his new recording, Drink Ring Jesus, which tell stories of country life’s dark side and serve to remind listeners how it feels to stand at the intersection of piety and sin.
The Tennesee native also covered cuts from his previous record, Last Call, which was compared to everyone from Johnny Cash to Ryan Adams. Both records provide a front porch view of life in rural Tennessee, albeit one with a sometimes sinister perspective.
Though an accomplished musician, writer, and performer, Stephen displayed an approachable, down to earth stoke about him, leaving the PWP audience with the feeling there was nothing else Stephen would rather be doing than playing for them.
The worst seat in the house at Piney Woods Performances is quite likely closer than you've ever sat for a performance before. Cozy and music-centered, Stephen seemed to enjoy the rapt attention to his songs. The audience definitely enjoyed an evening of great music without background clatter - you can hear complete silence between verses and chord changes.
Tabitha, the house cat, strolled on rug for a cameo appearance at Stephen's feet.
If you're a music fan, you would have loved this show.
For information on upcoming events, email pineywoods@myway.com and ask to be added to our mailing list. The next show is 7/8/06 and features Susan Gibson.
To contact Stephen Simmons, click on the photo above to be redirected to his web site.
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