Sturgill Simpson made a significant return to live music with a surprise concert at Bimbo's 365 Club in San Francisco, marking his first solo performance in three years after a vocal cord injury. This show preceded his headlining slot at the Outside Lands Festival, where he debuted new songs from his album 'Passage du Desir', performed under the moniker Johnny Blue Skies. During the club gig, he played only one original song, 'Right Kind of Dream', while the festival set included another debut, 'If the Sun Never Rises Again'. Both performances featured a mix of covers and tracks from his previous albums, showcasing his eclectic style and the strength of his live band. Simpson's artistic evolution and willingness to defy industry norms were evident as he embraced this new chapter in his career. Fans have responded positively, noting the freshness and energy of his live interpretations compared to the studio versions.