Chris Smither has been a mainstay on the American folk/blues scene for may years, releasing consistently strong albums and constantly touring – this new album highlights exactly why he’s been so successful over the years as it’s full of good songs backed by some superb guitar work.
The 12 songs are a mixture of 7 new tracks, alongside a couple of covers and his now customary reading of a Dylan song. This time by tackling ‘Visions of Johanna’ he’s chosen one of the very best, and his version in 6/8 time works well, and the song fits the metre well but brings an obviously different feel to the track.
Tim O’Brien provides mandolin, fiddle and vocals across many of the songs, and his contributions compliment Smithers’ acoustic guitar work perfectly.
His roots in the 60s folk/blues revival is visible in his songs and his playing, but the edgy political commentary on the excellent ‘Diplomacy’ removes any doubt; other memorable songs include ‘Origin of Species’ and the title track.
This is another high quality disc to add to his already impressive catalogue and for those yet to discover Chris, this would be the prefect place to start.

Track listing
1 Open Up
2 Leave the Light On
3 Shillin' for the Blues
4 Seems So Real
5 Origin of Species
6 Cold Trail Blues
7 Diplomacy
8 Father's Day
9 Visions of Johanna
10 Blues in the Bottle
11 John Hardy
12 John Hardy Reprise

£13.49