With his latest incarnation of Savoy Brown, Simmonds show at the ‘Duck’ shot straight and true with the Savoy Brown long tradition of being some of the best musical purveyors of British blues, boogie and rock to ever come from across the pond. Savoy Brown, featuring a powerhouse rhythm section consisting of Gerry Sorrentino on bass and Mario Staiano on drums along with Kim Simmonds and his signature Gibson Flying V, hit the stage running with an SB classic ‘I’m Tired’, from the bands 1969 release A Step Further.

After releasing the new CD ‘Steel’ on February 27, Savoy Brown is on the road for a nationwide tour. The CD is loaded with new Savoy gems, many of which were performed Thursday including a Lowell Fulsom number called ‘Monday Morning Blues’ and a lesson in slide guitar in the form of a tune called ‘Long as I Got You’.  Another song called ‘I Don’t Remember You’ was prefaced by Kim Simmonds recalling encounters with fans that over time expect him to remember them based on a brief handshake or meeting in the past.

Other songs from the vault included ‘Poor Girl’ from the album ‘Looking In’; ‘Hellbound Train’ from the album of the same name and the Muddy Waters tune ‘Going to Louisiana’.  My musical wishes came true after hearing ‘Tell Mama and ‘Street Corner Talkin’.

Back in the early 60’s, Savoy Brown as well as other bands and performers that included John Mayall, Alexis Korner, Taste, Chickenshack and Fleetwood Mac, started a blues movement in the U.K. that ironically reintroduced American blues to young Americans.  With the exception of a few, most of these bands are now gone for one reason or another or have completely morphed into the mainstream.

Unlike most of the aforementioned performers, Simmonds has maintained and continued to nurture his passion for the blues over the years.  His vocals sounded as energetic as ever and his instantly recognizable classic low-toned playing and slide work remain on target.

One good thing for us fans is that Kim Simmonds was, is and always will be the heart and soul of Savoy Brown.  I look forward to seeing Savoy Brown again.  I wonder if Kim Simmonds will remember me.