Lil’ Smokies Roots Music Is Stopping in Fort Collins – scenenoco.com

February 8, 2020

PHOTO PROVIDED BY LIL’ SMOKIES.
Drawing on the energy of a rock band and the Laurel Canyon songwriting of the ‘70s, The Lil Smokies are reimagining their approach to roots music on their new album Tornillo, named for the remote Texas town where the album was recorded.
Produced by Bill Reynolds (The Avett Brothers, Band of Horses), Tornillo is the band’s third studio album. Formed in Missoula, Montana, The Lil Smokies’ lineup features Matt Cornette (banjo), Andy Dunnigan (vocals, dobro), Scott Parker (bass), Matt “Rev” Rieger (guitar, vocals) and Jake Simpson (fiddle, vocals). Building a national following through constant touring, they have performed at Red Rocks, LOCKN’, High Sierra, Telluride, Bourbon & Beyond and more.
Lil Smokies will be at Washington’s on February 13th as part of a nationwide tour.
We asked Jake Simpson (fiddle and vocals) about their music:
1. What inspires you when you are creating music and performing?
Everything affects everything. When we are on the road, literally anything can be a source for inspiration. From things you see out the van window, to people you meet, and experiences you have. The best inspiration comes from the most unexpected places.2. Does the album have a theme?
If Tornillo has a theme, to me it would either be hope, or progress, but I’m sure it would be different for each band member, and different for each listener.3. Fort Collins will be one of 5 Colorado stops on your national tour. Have you played in Fort Collins before? What are you looking forward to most about playing at Washington’s?
We have played Ft. Collins but never Washington’s. We are looking forward to rocking new tunes in a fresh room!

4. You are getting quite the fan base. What do you have to say to someone who comes to see one of your shows?
Thank you! We love you!

5. When someone comes to see one of your shows, what should they expect?
If you are planning on coming to the show, you can expect 90 minutes of authentic expression. No gimmicks, just five humans with a message to share, and a safe space to enjoy yourself with other like minded music lovers. Come express yourself with us!

Recorded at Sonic Ranch studio and inspired by the great outdoors, Tornillo paints a picture of longing for home, missing loved ones & all the tribulations that come from spending years hustling on the road. During the recording process, the band pursued activities like rafting, fly-fishing, hiking, and rock-climbing, which all played a role in creating the space & emotion that’s so apparent on the record.

Catch The Lil Smokies On Tour:

Jan. 23 – Seattle, WA – Neptune Theatre

Jan. 24 – Vancouver, BC – The Biltmore Cabaret

Jan. 25 – Portland, OR – Aladdin Theater

Jan. 31 – Morro Bay, CA – The Siren

Feb. 1 – Los Angeles, CA – Lodge Room

Feb. 6-7 – Durango, CO – Animas City Theatre

Feb. 9 – Crested Butte, CO – Public House

Feb. 13 – Fort Collins, CO – Washington’s

Feb. 15 – Salt Lake City, UT – State Room

Mar. 5 – Philadelphia, PA – Boot & Saddle

Mar. 6 – Brooklyn, NY – Knitting Factory

Mar. 7 – D.C. – 9:30 Club

Mar. 11 – Boston, MA – The Sinclair

Mar. 12 – Burlington, VT – Higher Ground Lounge

Mar. 14 – Jay, VT – Jay Peak Resort

Mar. 27-29 Squaw Valley, CA – WinterWonderGrass

Apr. 8 – Madison, WI – High Noon Saloon

Apr. 9-10 – St. Paul, MN – Turf Club

Apr. 16 – Nashville, TN – Basement East

To buy tickets to the show, go to https://www.washingtonsfoco.com/e/the-lil-smokies-86097797831/

Scene Magazine Local Offers

View More