Kenny & Amanda Smith
Today, Amanda Smith is known as one of the best female vocalists in bluegrass, but at the time of the release of her debut album with the Kenny and Amanda Smith Band, her lovely, mature and expressive voice was a revelation. Kenny Smith, formerly of the Lonesome River Band and a two-time winner of IBMA’s Guitarist of The Year award, works alongside her, anchoring the group with amazing guitar work. His combination of smoothness, dexterity and drive is unique and gives the group a really distinctive sound. Most of the material here is up-tempo, driving bluegrass, though definitely with a contemporary edge. Highlights include two Tim Stafford songs ("All She Ever Wants" and "Never Win Again"), but all the material is excellent and well-chosen.
Today, Amanda Smith is known as one of the best female vocalists in bluegrass, but at the time of the release of her debut album with the Kenny and Amanda Smith Band, her lovely, mature and expressive voice was a revelation. Kenny Smith, formerly of the Lonesome River Band and a two-time winner of IBMA’s Guitarist of The Year award, works alongside her, anchoring the group with amazing guitar work. His combination of smoothness, dexterity and drive is unique and gives the group a really distinctive sound. Most of the material here is up-tempo, driving bluegrass, though definitely with a contemporary edge. Highlights include two Tim Stafford songs ("All She Ever Wants" and "Never Win Again"), but all the material is excellent and well-chosen.