Kevin Viol Brings the Heat to Acoustic Explosion

By Staff in Arts & Entertainment on Aug 27, 2011 6:00PM

Local singer/songwriter Kevin Viol brought his unique perspective of folk music to Thursday night's Acoustic Explosion at Silvie's. Far from the coffee house stereotype, although there was a song about coffee, this was a foot-stomping, body moving performance that built up throughout the set, literally ending on a strong and powerful note. His lighthearted interactions with the crowd between songs also made the performance more enjoyable. You have to appreciate a musician who polls his audience about his choice in fashion accessories before playing. The entire set felt like you were rocking out and goofing off at friend's house, rather than just sitting in a club.

Most of Kevin's performance was plugged in, with Robert Tisdale on lead guitar and Tyler Core on percussion. While this was his first show with accompaniment, here's hoping it won't be his last. The added dynamic definitely worked. The entire set was nothing short of full on energy.

Acoustic explosion? Most definitely.

Kevin Viol will be opening for Gretchen & Regina, September 27th,
Stage773, 1225 W Belmont, 8 p.m., $15

By Monica Carter