By GRAHAM REID
(Herald rating: * * *)
Smith came to attention with her sensitive version of Jolene on the recent tribute to Dolly Parton, Just Because I'm a Woman. The presence of this unknown among such illustrious company as Alison Krauss, Shelby Lynn, Emmylou Harris and others - and with Dolly
on harmony vocals for Jolene - suggested we were being warned of a major talent arriving. Here's the evidence.
With a pure tone, polished songwriting (they are all originals except for Jolene hidden at the end) and a confident delivery, Smith sets herself apart from so many of the artfully empty female singers out of Nashville. She plays the Jolene card again on Raggedy Ann, which is a similar plea from a kid in hand-me-downs. Elsewhere she tells you she isn't pretty - and of course she is.
But she also has a deft pop touch (the guitar jangle of Fighting For It All) and offers wistful blues balladry (Train Song).
Yet there is a shiny blandness over the long haul, and in spite of the lovely production and songs given the muted instrumentation they deserve, ultimately there is that Teflon effect. That said, there is enough here to warrant careful future attention - and maybe the announcement of a major country talent.
Label: Vanguard
