The Register Citizen (Torrington, CT)
Daniels puts music chops on display in Connecticut
Jeff Daniels is best known for his film and television work, yet he’s also a playwright, as well as a gifted guitarist and singer-songwriter.
Daniels, 63, said he has written and performed music for years, simply because he finds it enjoyable and satisfying.
“I know I’m supposed to stay in my own lane, but this has always been a part of me,” said Daniels, who brings his show to Infinity Music Hall in Norfolk on Saturday, Aug. 11, and the Ridgefield Playhouse on Sunday, Aug. 12.
The father of three, who has released multiple albums and performed with the likes of Lyle Lovett and Bruce Hornsby, will be joined for parts of his set by The Ben Daniels Band, featuring one of his two sons.
Fans can expect a wide range of music, from Americana and blues to rock with the Jeff Daniels and The Ben Daniels Band’s Acoustically Speakin’ Summer ’18 Tour.
Speaking by phone, Daniels said he enjoys “the creative control that comes with playing music in front of people, where there’s no director or editor,” allowing for a direct connection between the musicians and audience.
Daniels shares personal stories about the songwriting in the show, evoking a down-home, intimate atmosphere in the hall.
“They can expect a good time; I make sure they have fun,” he said. “I use comedy and humor to entertain them, and then drop in some other stuff. The musicianship, particularly the band, is featured a lot.”
Daniels said showmanship is essential, because “you can’t just sing into your navel for 90 minutes,” but don’t expect any extra-
neous frills. “There’s no videos, God no.”
Part of his inspiration comes from seeing Arlo Guthrie perform and tell stories in Detroit in the early 1970s. Like Guthrie, he said, “I lead you down the road and surprise you.”
Speaking of surprises, the Emmy-winner is enjoying a nice one regarding his acting career, as he heads back to Broadway in December to star as attorney Atticus Finch in “To Kill a Mockingbird.” “It’s a chance to play a great, iconic character ... probably the role of a lifetime.” Daniels said.