The weather was perfect, the beer was abundant and the tunes were loud and raw as Mike Snowden showed off his musical talents to the folks at the Red Hare Brewery this past Friday night. As the Marietta, GA brewery filled up at the usual Friday evening happy hour, many came to partake in the various beers Red Hare has to offer. Many came to challenge others in friendly games of corn hole and bocce ball. Some came to socialize and enjoy other’s company and then there were the ones who came to treat their ears to the soulful sounds of Mike Snowden and his cigar box guitars which possess the rawness of Robert Johnson and the smoothness of the North Mississippi Allstars. Snowden rolled through two sets for the folks in attendance full of original music and a few killer cover tunes. The fuzz filled guitars dominated his songs “500 Mason Jars” and “Mr. Evil” while tunes like “Up All Night” were smooth and soulful. He offered up a new track, “Where’s My Rooster” which had folks up and rocking. Welcome additions are the cover tracks he introduces to his sets, staying away from songs that are done to death, he once again offered up some gems. Standing out was his blues infusion to the Ramone’s “Blitzkrieg Bop” and a loud raw rendition of Tina Turner’s “Nutbush City Limits”. While the covers are nice to hear, it is his originals that drive the show. Mike Snowden’s music thrives in the live environment. A veteran musician he understands what it takes to deliver mighty fine live music. Friday night he delivered two damn good sets of music. Once the music started the packed house cared less about their leisure activities and more about enjoying the fuzz filled cigar box blues. Check out Mike Snowden whenever you get the chance, you will not be disappointed. By Chris Martin - Examiner.com