HUTCHSIMON PROJECT
CD RELEASE
SHADOW LOUNGE
Friday, October 24
 

It would be easy to compare the sound of the HutchSimon Project to D'Angelo, Seal, Maxwell or any of the excellent soul acts that have risen to popularity in the past 15 years. In fact, such a comparison would even be considered one of the highest compliments that an R&B artist could receive. It just would not be enough to describe the sublime sound created by vocalist Richard "Hutch" Hutchins and guitarist Scott Simon, who are both active members of local group Mi Sandz. Hutch sings about familiar themes like love, heartbreak, devotion to music and the state of society. As the sound escapes from his throat it turns into a sweet, rich and filling treat. It sticks to the ribs like an aural soul food. Simon, a protégé of jazz legend Jimmy Ponder, plays guitar with a confidence and simplicity that betrays his young age. Not feeling the need to attempt musical acrobatics, his clean sound alternately backs Hutch's vocals and grabs the spotlight. This past August, the HutchSimon Project gathered an audience in the intimate setting of the Shadow Lounge and recorded their CD, Out of the Shadow. Featuring other local artists like Anita Brown, Nathan James, Supa C and Curtis Johnson of the Real Silk Band, the album displays all of the HutchSimon Project's best qualities, not the least of which is their ability to connect with their audience on tracks like "I Got No Time." Supa C's remix of "You Love" adds an extra dose of funk.

-- KELLY DELANEY

With the Rain Quartet. All ages. $8. East Liberty. 412.363.8277