Album Review
Mindy Smith
One Moment More
Vanguard Records
Purchase The Album
Mindy Smith has a one of a kind voice. It’s a sparkling clear instrument which drives home her simple, acoustic based songs with great force. Think of Mindy as a cross between Dolly Parton and Allison Krauss. One Moment More, the debut album from this impressive new talent is a rock solid winner.
Your introduction to Mindy Smith has most likely come in the form of a remake of Dolly Parton’s “Jolene.” That song has been covered so many times that I’ve lost count but no one has ever done it like Mindy. Her emotional, soaring vocal performance is hands down the best version of this song that I’ve ever heard. When you add harmony vocals from Dolly herself you have one hell of a song. Thankfully, it has been included as a bonus track on this record.
But that’s only the start of the good things on this album. The single “Come To Jesus” is spiritual without being preachy, something that many artists struggle with when trying to record a gospel tune. Oddly enough, it’s also one of the loudest songs on this laid back record. It’s a song that is bound to turn some heads. The delicate “Raggedy Ann” is another winner. “Falling” should be a single and would is the albums highlight cut. “Train Song”, “Fighting For All”, and the title track are all well written, solid tunes as well.
The only problem here is that this really is a mood record. It’s got a singular tempo which lends a sense of sameness to many of the tracks. Taken individually they are all outstanding songs but taken together in one dose and they all start to sound very similar. That said, this is a great album to listen to when you’re in the mood for something mellow. However, next time around it would be nice to see Mindy rock up the tempo a little bit to keep things interesting.
Mindy is the complete package. She plays solid acoustic guitar, writes top notch songs, has a distinct sound to separate her from the pack, and has a voice which makes you stop what you’re doing to listen. She’s bound to have a long career loaded with great music and I for one can’t wait to see what she does next.
Album Review by Jeff Krasky
The WOC Rating Scale |
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The album stands above the rest. This is a record that every country music fan needs to have in their collection. This album is better than the average release. A strong record with some flaws that keep it from reaching that 5 star level. This album is an average country release. Doesn't posses qualities that make it stand out among all the other albums out there. A weak record that lacks solid songs or good vocal performances. Sample before you buy. This record is a bargin-bin reject that just isn't worth the time or the money. Completely misses the mark. |