I have lived in the greater Houston area my entire life, but never had the opportunity to visit the iconic Houston venue McGonigel’s Mucky Duck. That changed this past Thursday night when I was invited to photograph local artist Winston Cook.

Winston, a classical trained musician, who was later influenced by such genres of music as alternative, rock, indie and folk. The Mucky Duck was the perfect setting to showcase Winston’s talent with its Iris Pub feel and intimate setting.

Winston’s set consisted of mainly originals with a handful of covers in the mix. Winston began his set with Seven Pills followed by The Lights and the Night, Pines of home, Sweet Fussy Sings the Blues and Worth the fight. Winston’s original songs tend to draw from his favorite memories and life experiences. Winston’s lyrical talent proves not only is Winston an amazing musician, but an excellent song writer as well.

Winston’s amazing voice is perfectly suited to his style of indie and folk with a slight hint of blues. The biggest surprise of the night was his perfect rendition of Chris Isaak’s Wicked Game which is no easy feat for any vocalist.

If you have not had the opportunity to see this young man in person, I highly recommend you do so while you can still see him in an intimate setting.