Hollywood Cowboy at the Rutledge

Rock music is a broad genre in much the same way that country now encompasses pop and bluegrass. Rock fans and music industry types alike were on hand for the performance of one of Nashville's hottest rock bands, Hollywood Cowboy. With a sound that fits into the rock genre but is decidedly different, Hollywood Cowboy is all about emotion, well-crafted songs and obvious hard work.

Frontman and chief songwriter Nick Autry is the focal point of the band, with his unique voice and music fueling the band. Autry is no Eddie Vedder or Scott Stapp wannabe; his voice stands out from the crowd, and while not as powerful as a Chris Cornell, he's no less emotional.

Just back from a tour of New York City by way of a couple North Carolina stops, Hollywood Cowboy was in fine form at this gig, especially after the first couple songs when Autry really loosened up. Songs like "Little Red Cars" and "Pieces of Me" show how, while he probably has influences like anyone, Autry doesn't really seem to be influenced by anyone in particular.

Their best song was probably "Blind," which evokes comparisons to Stone Temple Pilots but belongs totally to Autry.

The band is propelled by the no-holds-barred drumming of boy-toy skin basher Jarrett Daughtry, who has the girls drooling. He plays with a click track, which is a good thing, because it's easy to see how a drummer so intense could tend to speed up from time to time.

Lead guitarist Steve Caron seldom plays a single-note solo, usually opting for chords and effects. But when he does play a single-note solo it's obvious that he can. He's solid, tasteful, and obviously determined to be a rock star as much as a great musician.

Originally from Raleigh, North Carolina, Hollywood Cowboy got its name from the names of a former band member's pets. The irony wasn't lost when they realized that Autry is a distant relative of the original Hollywood cowboy, Gene Autry.

Hollywood Cowboy has made Nashville its home base since last summer, giving up a strong following in Raleigh to be part of the growing rock scene in Music City. From what I saw at the Rutledge, it won't be long before they're the leader of the pack.

On the web at:
www.myspace.com/hollywoodcowboyrocks
www.myspace.com/nickautry


About the Rutledge
The Rutledge is a 250 capacity venue with one of the city's best-designed rooms for live music. Previously known as Blue Sky Court, the club was closed for renovations for about a year before re-opening in 2006 as the Rutledge. Outstanding hi-tech sound and light systems have made this the club of choice for both local and touring acts.

The club draws its name from the Rutledge Hill area where it is located. An area of South Nashville named for the family of Septima Sexta Rutledge in the early 1800s, Rutledge Hill is mostly developed these days, although some of the old architecture still exists.

Club manager Andy Aquino, who previously helped usher in the highly successful Gibson Café at Opry Mills, said the club has undergone changes over the years, but that the main bar was built pre-Civil War.
Aquino said that, from what he has been told, the brick bar has seen use as a church, school and a hospital (probably during the Civil War), with a long succession of owners.

It's also rumored that a large condo project may soon break ground behind the Rutledge and the neighboring Fiesta Mexicana restaurant.

The site of frequent record label showcase concerts, the Rutledge also features a smoke-free atmosphere with a covered outdoor smoking and socializing area, as well as a lunch and dinner menu.

On the web at:
www.therutledgelmv.com
www.myspace.com/therutledgelmv
Location: 410 4th Avenue South
Phone:(615)782-6858
Hours: The Rutledge is usually open seven days a week; hours vary.


Article Written & Submitted by Rick Moore