The Whistles & The Bells, the local, eclectic musical vehicle of former Cadillac Sky frontman Bryan Simpson, who we’ve been buzzing about for a couple years now, are currently hard at work on a followup to their self-titled 2014 debut. However, that doesn’t mean they can’t make time for a local show! Following a busy run of Nashville dates earlier this year, the project is set to play Mercy Lounge tonight, May 27 with Renn, and tickets are still available right here. Grab yours now and read on for details below!
THE WHISTLES & THE BELLS
The new musical vehicle, and, by extension, personal journey of former Cadillac Sky frontman and multi-instrumentalist Bryan Simpson, Nashville’s The Whistles & The Bells is a project that has piqued our interest from day one. Simpson’s departure from his former band, who were beginning to build a cult following and who had worked under the production guidance of Dan Auerbach, mid tour, a tour wth Mumford and Sons no less, certainly left fans scratching their heads. However, it wasn’t so abrupt for Simpson himself, who had recently converted to Christianity and found himself being pulled down a different path. Some soul searching and reflection led Bryan to craft what would become The Whistles & The Bells, and he released a self-titled, full-length debut, produced by Vance Powell and recorded in just two days with the help of some talented friends and associates, in early 2014. Hard to pin down, The Whistles & The Bells combine elements of americana, folk, rock, blues, and more; a distinct, personal sound characterized by themes of faith and searching. Currently hard at work on a second album, we definitely wouldn’t be surprised to see some new Whistles & Bells material make its live debut at this show!
RENN
Local singer-songwriter Renn hails originally from the North Carolina coast, and plays with a folky, earnest, and personal rock rooted style. Hear “King of California,” the lead single from soulful troubadour’s debut, Heartache and a Song, below.
The Whistles & The Bells and Renn will perform tonight, May 27 at Mercy Lounge. The show is 18+, begins at 9 p.m. (doors at 8 p.m.), and tickets are available to purchase for $10.