True to form, Wes crashes into Parker Millsap and Caleb Caudle at Off Broadway while they are selling the "merch" to fans who lined up to buy in Saint Louis. Dave Shogren and Smokin' Joe are in the background. As a big bonus Parker presented me a wonderful piece of art signed by the artist.
Dave Shogren drove with musician pal Joey and to Off Broadway in the historic Cherokee Lemp district to see Parker Millsap. Linda (Dave's wife) would join us later as she had another meeting to get to this Thursday evening.
Nick greeted us at the door with a welcoming almost like we'd been there before. We have. This same posse saw Parker when he last played this venue. Joey was so pleased to be there, he insisted on buying us all a big cold Stag beer. So with Stag in the front row we enoyed Caleb's opening act and Parker's show. Caleb and Parker finished with a joint finale before heading to the "merch" where I sort of photo bomb/ambushed them. A beautiful evening.
Parker quickly made a name for himself with his captivating live performances, soulful sound, and character-driven narratives. He's had a string of successes including an appearance on CONAN, a performance with Elton John at the Apple Music Festival, an Austin City Limits taping & an Americana Music Association nomination for Album of the Year. He's shared the stage with folks like Jason Isbell, Shovels & Rope, Patty Griffin, Houndmouth, and many others.
Parker's early releases showcased a mastery of acoustic folk rock, with their flourish for revelation and fiery dynamics. Be Here Instead, Millsap's 2021 release produced by John Agnello, hinted at the wildness to come while exploring newer, more personal songwriting styles. Parker's newest album, Wilderness Within You, is a natural step in Parker's evolution which interweaves threads of his musical past and newer influences to gorgeous effect.
Although a school night, Dave and Joey kept me out past my bedtime on Cherokee Street at Ohio at the Wohisky Ring for a Stag and a bit of pinball.
So great to see Parker again and enjoy listenting to a retrospective of his music along with a couple of surprises. Parker sang Brian Wilson's Beach Boys tune - Little Surfer Girl and a Chet Baker tune My Buddy. I was great to hear songs like The Very Last Day, The Real Thing, Your Water and more.
Parker is planning a trip to Cahokia Mounds for Friday but he might not get the best experience as snow is scheduled to blow through making a trek to the top of Monk's Mound less than optimal. I hope he enjoys the history of that spot though.
No comments:
Post a Comment