Performances
Don Simpson, Jack Simmons and Dan Haddock frequently perform together. Though each artist also performs individually, the following photos show some of their combined concerts, along with other performers on the same bill.
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Don Simpson |
Jack Simmons |
Dan Haddock |
2008 Six Strings & Coffee Beans
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Minnetonka Music Festival
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Six Strings and Coffee Beans 2/9/07
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Jack Simmons is impressive in his versatility and virtuosity. Whether he is playing 6 string or 12 string guitar, original pieces or blues, finger style or slide, Jack owns the stage. His vocals are deep and mellow with Texas and Delta style influences. His guitar renditions range from Leo Kotke and Chet Atkins to Sun House and Lightnin' Hopkins. His performances are always entertaining, engaging and dynamic.
-Don Simpson
"[Jack} Simmons has filled the concert hall on three previous dates this year to acclaim from a packed house, usually peppered with guitar players. The Fort Worth Star-Telegram states: '...Simmons holds fast to the clean sound of the acoustic instrument. As phrasing goes, Jack is immaculate!' A baritone vocalist, combined with the thunderous 12 string finger style guitar, it fleshes out to American Roots music with a contemporary, eclectic mix of blues, jazz & gospel."
-Artistic Blends
Don Simpson
Don,
Thanks for opening for me at Artistic Blends! Your performance was acclaimed by all in attendance who spoke with me; I always appreciate someone who is the "real deal" when it comes to guitar performance, and "classical" guitar is over my head. It does, however, hit the heart when you skillfully execute. Though not a classical piece, I had more comments regarding Lamb of God than any other piece! The emotive resonance of your delivery of this song spoke volumes. Thanks for your mastery of the guitar and rounding out a great show!
Cordially,
Jack Simmons
"Don Simpson has previously commanded the stage at Artistic Blends. He takes a classical approach to guitar, pristine & formal in his initial approach, then he'll break form the usual & step into a contemporary mindset; a syncopated yet melodically accessible performance issues forth with impeccable precision."
-Artistic Blends
Kevin Cook
Kevin Cook is a native of Fort Worth, Texas but at first listening sounds absolutely British Isles! A folksinger at heart, you'll hear elements of everything from Fairport Convention to Jethro Tull. Cook's melodies weave through story-songs in 1850's troubadour style or even 1960's Bryds. His contemporary stylings harken back to the 60's with humorous references to regional archetype celebrities like Icky Twerp and Harold Taft. One can discern that Cook doesn't have to take himself too seriously, as is common practice with many in the Alt-Folk genre today. After all, a performer that can cite Robert Burns and The Three Stooges in the course of a concert has got to be centered!