Ask singer/songwriter Keaton Simons what he takes from his new EP, 123 Go and his answer is as authentic as the six songs on the record. “I took a step back and poured all my focus into the music and the moment.”

Simons has often played with other artists throughout his career. Just until last year he was in the enviable position of playing guitar for none other than Chris Cornell. “I played in bands with numerous other artists growing up, including Snoop Dogg, Skimkid3 from The Pharcyde, Gnarles Barkley, and most recently, Chris Cornell. I’m blessed to have worked with such amazing people, learn from them and make some incredible music, but it was kinda time to get back in the studio and work on my next release.”

His rejuvenated love of making his own music is evident from the opening notes of the spirited title track, “123 Go.” A jubilant roots rocker that picks up both steam and jangle as the song progresses, it is an absolutely infectious groove that defies you not to tap your feet, clap your hands and shake blissfully at top speed as you listen to it.

Equally impressive, though on the opposite side of the musical spectrum, is the moody and gorgeous “The Sound Of Impatience.” The six-song collection bounds back and forth effortlessly between the two tempos, from the feel-good “Crazy in Love” to the beautiful and moving track, “Yet.”