Nashville-based Amanda Nagurney may only be 23 years old, but she’s tried-and-true “American Made” (raised in Orchard Park, NY) and well on her way to country music stardom. “Gone” offers six fine songs, including three which she had a hand in composing. Those are the title cut, as well as “You Can Make It on Your Own” and “Even If It’s Wrong.” Her mix of country and pop sensibilities won her recognition as the 2009 Crossover Artist of the Year in the Independent Music Network Awards. Much like one of her primary influences (Miranda Lambert), Amanda Nagurney has the talent and business acumen to succeed. Unlike Lambert who launched her career at about the same age with the support of Sony Records, Nagurney is no doubt in search of a major label recording contract. The production and release of this third album in as many years will surely result in significant airplay and win her a legion of fans. 

Written by Jason D. Jones and Jason Fitz, “It Ain’t Just Music” may be the best song to tell the young woman’s present day story. For Amanda, music is more than just an obsession … it’s her first love, the dream she chases, her desire, her body, her soul, her high, and her low.  And she's taking it one step at a time, always understanding that the road is a long one.  She expressively sings about advice from her mother in “You Can Make It on Your Own” when she evocatively states “It’s winding and turning, but you’re in control. So take your time, it’s a long drive.”  I’d like to hear Nagurney further explore pop leanings into an even broader base of material with blues, ballads, alt-country vibes, and even a few classics. 

Her dynamic well-arranged instrumental support on “Gone” comes in the form of guitars, keyboards, bass and drums. The album cover shows Amanda with a mandolin, and she’s currently learning that instrument. The understated hints of tasty mandolin and banjo occasionally heard in the mix of this album are played by Joel Key, and it’s Jason Roller’s electric guitar that is front-and-center on the breaks. Diana Kelley’s background vocals are sweet and sublime. With her voice, confidence and determination, my suspicion is that Amanda Nagurney will be “Found” (i.e. discovered) long before she’s “Gone.” This six-song album is sure to launch her to even greater heights on the country music scene. (Joe Ross, Roots Music Review)
                            Read more...
                        

                            
I have known Amanda and her family now for almost 10 years as she sang in a benefit for my son who fell and broke his back. From the moment I met and listened to Amanda I knew this was the real deal, she is selfless , sings like a canary, has a huge country heart, and the ambition to see people be happy, then is dedicated to furthering her career. We all love Amanda and her family around here and I am sure you will agree once you have heard and met her. Good luck Amanda we all love you and wish for you to see your dreams come true like the thousands have already from you.
                            Read more...