John R. Miller

CRITIC’S PICK
Sun. May 18

John R. Miller, Little Country Giants, The EARL — Country singer/songwriter Miller received a boost when fellow West Virginian Tyler Childers provided some very vocal support. Miller often sings about the darker side of everyday rustic people’s lives, although in a positive way. There are echoes of pre-electric Dylan, along with some nifty John Prine wordplay. “Don’t sink the boat just because your motor’s fried” he sings on the recent live Fireside Sessions, much of which he’ll likely play tonight in addition to tracks from his superb latest full studio set Heat Comes Down. Traditional and melodic, Miller is a compelling talent who should be playing a larger venue. — Hal Horowitz