It was a little early for music, especially since it was Saturday, but whenever a new spot in town offers music I’m a sucker for it. Not to mention that it has been a couple of years since I heard singer/songwriter Jeremi Simon on stage, so it was a no brainer. So I grabbed me an 11:30 sandwich (nothing like a weekend brunch) and waited for the show.

So out on the sidewalk, with a chair and an acoustic guitar, Simon ran through an hour’s worth of original music. Simon’s songs are certainly within the folk genre. The topics range from protest to life’s complexities to fantasy, with lots in between, and contain such fine characteristics as humor and thoughtfulness. And as all good artists do, he offers some insight into himself. His vocals are deep and somewhat soft-spoken (and a bit raspy, but it was early) and the classical nylon string guitar he was playing fit right into the mood. It was just perfect for a midday Saturday brunch. I sipped my soft drink as he sang about things like what love is, the ills of our society, and his kindergarten teacher. It was a nice change of pace from the usual night time music scene.

Simon plays solo around Bowling Green from time to time, as well as bass with local hip-hop group (now there’s variety) Natty Bumpoe. You can get more info at reverbnation.com/jeremisimon. If you look around there a little you’ll find a link to Natty Bumpoe as well. Go check it out and listen to some tunes there too.

New Venue Alert

Geno’s is a new sandwich shop located in the Hobby Lobby strip Mall on Scottsville Rd. As you might expect, it’s mainly an Italian deli with some good Italian cold cuts such as capicola, mortadella, salami, etc. You can get typical American fare like turkey, ham and roast beef as well. And they do have gyros every day, and the meat cooks on a rotisserie like it is meant to. There’s also a nice selection of side items. Spaghetti & meatballs and meatball subs are also offered. They are planning to have music there at noon on Saturday’s, weather permitting. Until things really take off though, this is not a sure thing, and we are heading into cold weather, so always check before heading over if you’re interested in the music. I’m not a food critic but I did like the Italian sub. They are on Facebook and you can also reach them at (270) 904-3676. Check out Geno’s.  

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