Scott, Miller Lite and the Common Wealth of Chattanooga

Two for two, ladies and gentlemen. Two concerts in two weeks and we get to meet the lead singer(s) for both. Last week it was Shane and Jamie of The Gougers after the show, and this week it was Scott Miller himself of Scott Miller and the Commonwealth right before the show. We had just got into Rhythm & Brews in Chattanooga to hear the final few songs of Bone Pony's set who had opened for SM&TC and in walks Scott. "Hey, it's Scott Miller," Rob said, and Scott turns to us with a smile and a geniune "Hey there!" He was surprised to hear we had come "all the way from Nashville" to see his little band since The Black Crowes had just finished opening The Riverbend Festival down the street. Things were going swimmingly and Ashlee got a great self-portrait with Scott.

And then Ashlee asked Scott about why they didn't play Bonnaroo which resulted in this reaction: Evidently it was a sore subject. According to Scott, Bonnaroo is actually "The Man" and not too friendly to regional bands during their festival. It does seem that although Bonnaroo does bring in quite the range of different musical styles, Americana is pretty much ignored. They get close with rock and alt-bluegrass, but no true Americana artists. Oh well, it's their party. The Bonnaroo wounds healed quick and Scott and the boys put on a great show with several songs from their upcoming new album as well some great standards like "Jody" and "Amtrak Crescent." The crowd was pretty good since SM&TC have a strong east Tennessee following. We were not overly impressed with the venue since Rhythm & Brews still allows smoking and the acoustics weren't top notch. But it was great to see the boys up close and personal again and we are already looking for the next time we can see them again. Much thanks to our friends Patrick & Michelle, Brian & Mollie and Keith & Sydney for meeting us out for dinner and drinks before the show at Murphy's Ale House (we can't believe Durty Nelly's is closed!).