I have never been a fan of folk musicians incorporating humor into their songwriting. Maybe it's because most of the time it feels forced or maybe it's just my preference of serious lyrics. Whatever it is, my perspective was changed by one man last Friday night at The Ark in Ann Arbor. Todd Snider, a 44-year-old alt-country witty stoner songwriter, completely captured a sold-out house, at times making the entire place erupt in laughter, and at others striking complete silence with gripping pieces of air-tight reality. He's first and foremost a storyteller—and a damn good one—whether it's with his guitar during a song, or providing context to the meaning of his writing in a story. The guy is like your lovable burnt-out uncle whose wild experiences, effortless sense of humor and friendly disposition make him feel more like your friend than a rocker dancing on your paycheck. If you're not familiar, check him out at www.toddsnider.net.
I was there. It was my fourth time seeing him and I will never get over how he mesmerizes me and everyone else in the audience. No one else can capture my ADD-addled brain quite like Todd Snider.
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