Joel P West is one of those names that I’ve heard associated with the San Diego music scene for quite some time. I didn’t know anything about him, but I thought I probably wouldn’t like him. In my mind he was like John Mayer, a guy with an acoustic guitar singing sappy songs that girls in high school and moms listened to. I am glad to say that I was very very wrong.

The Soda Bar show drew a small crowd, but you could tell the people who were there were die hard fans. There were four members of his band, a fellow on the stand up cello, a girl on the violin, and a girl on the drums (which I always like), and West on guitar, harmonica and vocals. The use of different strings and harmonica produced a down south feel that bordered on melancholy. It is hard to think of other bands to compare them to because it was very unique, sincere, and ethereal. Although they definitely fit in the indie/folk rock category.

Most of his songs had a moderate tempo, although there were definitely some that were loud and foot stomping. It was an enjoyable concert and made me want to buy their albums. Joel P. West performs quite frequently in San Diego, and is definitely some one I would see again.