Perhaps the comparison is really not particularly apt, but there’s something about Scott Alan Simmons that reminds me of Warren Zevon — without the dark sense of humor, or the raspiness (so, really, not at all.) But there’s something about his vocal phrasings and confidence that make me wonder if this is what Zevon would have sounded like if his life had not been quite so bleak. I welcome you to disagree with me, but you’ll have to listen to the album first. I direct you to his cover of “Georgia on My Mind,” which is where the effect really stood out to me.
The album’s opening song, “Beggars & Gamblers” treats the listener to a good old-fashioned rock tune. However, Simmons is much more versatile than that. Though I preferred the louder songs (I’m just not that into male singer-songwriters), songs like “Goodbye, Dutch Girl” and “I Wish You Were Gone” display a lyrical deftness and true talent for storytelling. The tasteful guitar interludes help bridge the rockers with the folkers, and help the album stand out from the crowd. Nothing on this album is particularly adventurous, but Simmons knows his strengths and plays to them well. It’s a strong start, and I’m looking forward to continued growth from such a clearly skilled songwriter.