Tommy Womack performs as part of a Songwriters Round with Pat Haney and David Olney at the Phoenix Theatre. Photo by Pennman 3/25/2011.

I always like something different, so a chance to hear three top-notch songwriters perform in the intimate setting of the Phoenix Theatre was too good to pass up. And it was just perfect. These are songwriters whose words are meant to be heard, and what better setting than an audience in theatre seating all focused on one man and his guitar, in the spotlight, on a close-up stage. As variety is the spice of life there was plenty to go around here. There were songs of humor, songs of irony, songs of life experiences both positive and negative, and some were upbeat and some were tender. And when it was all over you knew you witnessed something special.

David Olney, Pat Haney, and Tommy Womack took turns all night playing “in the round”. At times one got the feeling there was a little bit of competition going on with comments like “how do I follow that?” or “I don’t want to follow that”. But follow each of them would, and always bringing something wonderful to the floor. One also got the impression that each man had an appreciation and respect for each other’s work. Songs like Womack’s “Play That Cheap Trick”, Haney’s “Licts”, and Olney’s “Jerusalem Tomorrow” are just three examples of the fine and varied tunes that we were treated to. Besides the ever-so-interesting lyrics behind each song was some pretty good guitar playing too, and the sound was crystal clear, right down to each note.

The show was produced by White Oak Hill Productions, and they did a fine job. The lighting was great and the sound was excellent. But the choice of venue for this kind of show was what I found most impressive, production-wise. With songs like these you’d better listen, and this was the place to do just that. So if you hear of other shows being put on by this local Bowling Green company you may want to check them out, because judging from this one you’re going to get a high-quality production coupled with high-quality talent. The quality level in all aspects of show production was definitely quite a few notches above average.

For more info on these artists check out www.davidolney.us, www.tommywomack.com, or Pat Haney on Facebook. 

David Olney, Tommy Womack & Pat Haney performed in a Songwriters Round at the Phoenix Theatre on 3/25/2011.

About the author: Pennman bought his first 45 at age nine and has been hooked on rock ever since. He has spent much of his disposable income on music, especially live performances. He writes reviews of the shows he sees and keeps a keen lookout for upcoming shows in or near Bowling Green. He has a BA in Communications, specializing in journalism, and has dabbled in music himself, both as a player and instructor. Find more of Pennman’s work at www.associatedcontent.com/user/165511/pennman.html or visit him at www.myspace.com/pennman_bg or www.facebook.com/pennman