Urgent.News

What's breaking now, across thousands of outlets.

Culture

Weathering The Storm With Johnny Blue Skies & The Dark Clouds

Johnny Blue Skies & The Dark Clouds entered the stage to the sound of a heavy descending guitar riff like something out of a doom metal track. Then the disco ball turned on, and Sturgill Simpson started playing a smoky blues guitar solo over jazz chords. The introduction then resolved in the funky syncopated groove of “Venus,” which was soon graced by the hearty twang of Simpson’s voice, country…

Weathering The Storm With Johnny Blue Skies & The Dark Clouds

Johnny Blue Skies & The Dark Clouds took the stage in Columbus to a heavy guitar riff, setting the tone for a night of diverse music styles. Sturgill Simpson began with a smoky blues guitar solo over jazz chords, transitioning into the funky "Venus" with Simpson's twang. The performance showcased Simpson's versatility, blending country, bluegrass, dance music, and jam-band aesthetics.

Despite some moments of directionless jamming, the band played for three hours, diving into their strengths and weaknesses. The second half of the show featured poignant songs like "If The Sun Never Rises Again" and "Right Kind Of Dream," showcasing Simpson's songwriting prowess and the Dark Clouds' arrangement skills. The concert concluded with powerful performances like "Excited Delirium," leaving a lasting impression of Sturgill Simpson's authentic and unabashed style.

Written by urgent.news from Stereogum's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

Read the original at stereogum.com →

More in Culture

More from Thursday 8 October →