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Songwriter Monte Montgomery at Canal Street Saturday
daytondailynews.com (2010) By Don Thrasher, daytondailynews.com For most of his career, Grammy-nominated guitarist Monte Montgomery has been backed by a crack rhythm section. However, several years ago the Austin-based musician decided to alter his approach and began dividing his time between solo gigs and dates with his trio. “Some people prefer the band, but some prefer the solo,” Montgomery said. “They have their preference, but I really like doing both myself. The solo shows are raw. It’s just kind of naked. It gives you a really intimate look at the guitar, my voice and the songwriting because there’s nothing else to really color it. “With the band it’s very powerful,” he continued. “There’s a lot going on for three guys on stage. This is a very stripped-down, in-your-face, nowhere-to-run, nowhere-to-hide version of what I’m doing.” Montgomery uses his acoustic shows as a chance to perform new material. “I’ve always got new stuff and you’re more likely to hear more of that as a solo,” he said. “Everything I write doesn’t make it to the band stage. It’s much easier to do in a solo situation because that’s how I write all my music. Because I’m able to play it, just me and a guitar, it’s easily translatable as a solo.” These dates also afford the Alabama native the opportunity for increased audience interaction. “You definitely get a lot more talking with the audience,” Montgomery said. “More of my personality comes out. I like to have fun and I can mix it up with the audience when I’m solo on stage by myself. I try to make them laugh and have a good time. That’s just who I am, but with the band it’s all about delivering powerful guitar solos and more edgy stuff. “This is the other side of that coin,” he continued. “It’s kind of like going to see a stand-up comic and then there’s this guy playing music too. Not that I plan out any material or anything, but my sense of humor comes out. It’s something I’ve always done so when I have your undivided attention, then that’s perfect.” Montgomery performs at Canal Street Tavern on Saturday, June 5. “I always look forward to playing at Canal Street,” he said. “There’s always a really good crowd. It’s one of those little gems out there on the road. It’s not necessarily the best PA system or the fanciest room, but there’s something about it that translates well from the stage to the audience. I feel comfortable there. I look forward to going back.” Where: Canal Street Tavern, 308 E. First St., Dayton |
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