Tamara Turner, CD Baby
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Regardless of the struggle, whether it be physical, emotional or spiritual, Smit
Rather than jump into the production, the skill and the technical virtues of this album, it is necessary to first reflect on how deeply this album moves and soothes its listeners. To understand the genuine spirit of this man and the generosity of his musical gift, it is important to first listen, let go and allow the music to shape you, the same way you would sit on a hilltop, looking out at a landscape and let the wind blow through your hair. His guitar inhales and exhales just like this kind of gentle, mountain wind, gathering in instrumental color with violin, English Horn, cello, piano, percussion, bass and flugel horn. Even before understanding this man more deeply through the nature of his songs and the stories which inspire them, the distilled simplicity and beauty comes through on a somatic level; his writing perfectly captures the magic of meeting a new person who instantly feels like an old friend. Like the opening track on this CD, “Inspired by a True Story,” Frank Smith’s album is founded on personal experience, from family reunions that resonated deeply in his soul for years to brief and fleeting moments with friends and family; sometimes these moments were just a phrase an old buddy used to sum up life’s intrinsic goodness (“It’s All Good”) and at other times, these moments are as simple as the memory of a smile (“Anything for a Smile”). It is this pure, unfiltered approach to songwriting that gives Gardens of Hope such an intimate and familiar feel, right from the beginning. With production by Will Ackerman, founder of Windham Hill Records, the warmth and humility of the music, as well as its intention, are perfectly conveyed. The title track speaks to the last five years of performing at Naples Community Hospital to soothe patients, staff and visiting loved ones; it is only natural that his music has been so successful in bringing hope and instilling peace among those who search. Regardless of the struggle, whether it be physical, emotional or spiritual, Smith’s musical voice softens the most resistant, roughened parts of the human condition.
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Debbie Allen, International Business Speaker & Best Selling Auth
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Can't stop playing this beautiful music!
Frank Smith's newest CD "Gardens of Hope" is wonderful! His music is so inspiring, relaxing and calming. I've been playing it for days on end and just can't seem to get enough of it. Thank you for creating such beautiful music for us to enjoy and also to help us de-stress our busy lives!
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