One of the great things about living in Nashville, Tennessee is the ability to go to virtually any club on any night and see an artist perform. Sometimes it’s just the singers and a guitar, other times it’s a cover band and finally you have a full-band show where there’s a cover charge. Tonight at The Rutledge, Emily West and Matt Jenkins performed to a full house. 

Matt Jenkins took the stage first and charmingly sang his way through a variety of songs that he wrote. All of his songs are traditional-leaning but still well within what country radio plays nowadays. If you head to Matt’s MySpace you will hear some of the songs he sang at the show. One of the highlights for me was his spot-on cover of Don Williams’ “Tulsa Time.” Previously signed to Unviersal South Records, other labels in town would be foolish not to give this talented artist another shot.

After a short time for a set change, Capitol Nashville’s Emily West took the stage and simply rocked. She showed personality, had boatloads of energy and sang with a powerful vocal that recalls many of the greats of years past and present. She sang songs from her digital EP and her upcoming album along with a hell of a version of “When Will I Be Loved.” Emily brought the house down with the powerful ballad “Blue Skies” and then brought the show home with her debut single “Rocks In Your Shoes.”

In an era of bland sameness at country radio, Emily West and Matt Jenkins are the real deal. They sing authentic, catchy songs that really belong on the radio. If you Emily West or Matt Jenkins come to a town near you, I suggest you find a way to see their shows, you’ll be glad that you did.

Emily West at the Rutledge