Almost as good as in person!
author: Bill Cutler
I haven't heard a bad CD from John yet, and that is sure the case with this one. I've had the pleasure of having heard him in person at about 5 shows now, usually by himself or with one other person. It's interesting to hear the songs as he records them, taking advantage of the gifts from other musicians to add to his great voice and guitar playing.
For a real treat, join John on one of the trips he as been leading to Ireland. I had the pleasure of going in September of 2008, and it was fantatic. He has info at his website (see the links to the left of these reviews.)
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Break Me Open
author: Suz Stapler
Great music. Thanks to WFUV90.7 for turning me on to him.
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A wonderful blend of lyrics and sound...
author: Janet and Harry Hallows
This CD demonstrates a wonderful variety of music. We particularly like the Irish sounds and lyrics in "So Here's to You."
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Invest some time and open yourself.
author: Snow-Body
Many artists don't get the media attention which they deserve - according me. Partly they owe it to their own admirable modesty or wilfulness. Sometimes their music doesn't go with the flow, or their name resembles rather much with a religious equivialent (in the music business). Nevertheless I just dare to name John Smith a prominent contributer within folkoriented music. His music can be considered as a healthy mixture somewhere between Cliff Eberhardt & Pierce Pettis their music. His last (meanwhile 5th) CD has been recorded with the finest assortiment of artists such as Tim O'Brien, Darrell Scott, but also the fantastic singer songwriter and guitarist Bill Miller. The music isn't pioneering, but is everything besides dull & inspiring. John's music breathes a natural warmth and beauty, although very well tended, also could be considered earthy. In that respect the qualification for the word "folk" is too lean in order to visualize my words clearly. Music becomes mystical at a certain point, and if you listen well you find similair devotion too in blues or any genre. It's all just a matter of listening and open yourself up. Summerized; break yourself open for the music of JohnSmith and I am confident you'll experiance the richness.
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