Giving a casual performance Wednesday night, singer songwriter Adam Klein, donned in a cowboy hat and jeans, played country and folk songs to a small crowd at Jackson Avenue Coffee.

The JAC hosted Klein, from Alabama, and guitar player Lucas McAulippe, who together are on their “Spring Songs for a New Year” tour.

Klein shared with the audience of about 10 people some of his old and newer songs while creating an intimate atmosphere at the JAC.

Walking into the JAC, customers could hear the slow, Western sound of the music. More people came through as the night went on, and the performers greeted all audience members with a smile as they walked through the door.

Klein’s attire contributed to the casual environment, as he was also dressed in a button-down shirt and tennis shoes while McAulippe wore khakis and flip-flops.

Klein said he did not pick out the songs before he got to the JAC, but rather he improvised based on audience reactions. After a few songs, he said decided to play songs that told stories.

“I play songs of the moment. I want to play the music that matters,” Klein said.

Klein said he wanted to show the journey of others and himself through his music. He played a few songs about people he has met while traveling, including a woman he met in Texas.

“My music shows where I’ve been musically and where I am going,” Klein said.

Throughout the show, the audience members were nodding and enjoying the music. Klein invited them to sing along in certain parts and encouraged dancing as well.

Later on in the show, Klein dedicated the song “Boy Butante Dreams” from his unreleased album “Archer’s Arrow” to Caitlyn Jenner. Klein said the song is about a man who is transitioning to a woman, and he came up with the idea for the song from an event that happens in his hometown of Athens, Ga.

“In Athens they have the Boy Butante Ball for people who are interested in cross-dressing and are (transgender),” Klein said. “The ball raises money for AIDS and HIV research.”

Although the crowd was limited, Klein said he enjoyed playing at the JAC and visiting the Midwest.

The next stop on Klein’s tour is in Chattanooga, Tenn. at the Meeting House. Klein’s new album “Archer’s Arrow” will be released in September.

Sydney Edwards can be reached at 581-2812 or [email protected].