Last Monday, singer/songwriter Meg Allison filled the HUB with a soft, yet powerful solo performance. While the initial turnout was sparse, the seats of the Fireplace Lounge began to fill as passersby were drawn in by the melodies of her acoustic guitar and chillingly beautiful voice.
Hailing from Chicago, IL, Allison, who recently appeared on USA Network’s “Nashville Star,” is currently living in Nashville, TN, a city renowned for music and producing legendary artists. Her sound is reminiscent of Jewel, Patty Griffin, and Martina McBride, and her unique songwriting and heartfelt lyrics/delivery came together to form a strong alternative/folk/country sound. Allison said of her budding musical career – “I got my degree in Mass Communications, but I wanted to play and I told my mom and dad – ‘I want to be a rockstar!’ Music just always felt right to me.”
The move down south seems to have had a positive effect on Allison as her songwriting and captivating voice show tremendous potential and versatility.
During her performance, she cited a variety of influences and sources of inspiration for her songs. One number, “Somebody’s Angel” was a particularly compelling piece, inspired by a man’s story about his handicapped son. Her set also included a few familiar cover tunes, “Chasing Cars” by Snow Patrol, as well as KT Tunstall’s “Black Horse and Cherry Tree” and “Crazy Love” by Van Morrison. She used a looping pedal, which allows performers to play over themselves live, wowing the audience with rich harmonies, and nailing both songs with clinical accuracy.
With her positive energy, meaningful lyrics, plenty of audience laughs and clever banter between songs, Allison’s set was entertaining and moving. Allison is currently embarking on a college tour around the Northeast to promote her new album, “Missing Piece.” To hear tracks from the album, and for more information on Meg Allison, visit her Myspace page, or go to MegAllison.com. For more information regarding upcoming events at PSU, visit the brand new CampusLIVE page at Campuslive.com/plymouth/!