Sky Smeed really hits his stride. He’s always been a good songwriter
author: seth rogovoy
On his new CD, Mill River, his third, Sky Smeed really hits his stride. He’s always been a good songwriter and an effective vocalist, but this time out, Smeed attacks the baker’s dozen tracks, eleven which are self-penned, with the sort of ferocity and aggression that, frankly, we didn’t even know he had inside. The result is a torrid journey through country-influenced rock that at once sounds fresh while at the same time recalling John Mellencamp’s finest earliest efforts. Smeed is equally gifted in matching lyrical hooks to musical hooks, and his narratives have a force of maturity and authority that belie his youth. Plus he’s found the perfect band this time around to support his majestic melodies, and the arrangements are both rootsy and dynamic.—Seth Rogovoy, Berkshire Living Magazine/WAMC Northeast Public Radio Network
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author: Tim Schaefer
I heard about Sky Smeed's new cd a few months before it was released, and the buzz it created gave me
great expectations. I've been a fan going back to his debut Flying High and that one earned a spot on my list of must have Desert Island cds. Now Mill River comes along and its become a contender. Mill River represents a shift in style that could be the one to open doors for Sky Smeed. His ability to put story to song often makes me think of Jim Croce, Steve Forbert, early Ryan Adams/Whiskeytown with a dash of Uncle Tupelo.
Mill River offers a more upbeat approach to the music, one that will get folks on the dance floor. Both robinhoodradio.com and WKZE have added the album to current rotation and his cover of Shame, Shame, Shame as already had phone reaction from listeners.
Call me biased, but I think Mill River is a great cd that clearly shows the evolution and expierience of a very talented artist on his way up. Even among the more up tempo songs, Sky goes back to his roots with some beautifully crafted quiet songs that are almost his trademark. I've often said that sooner or later a label will pick him up and he'll be on his way. It could'nt happen to a more deserving artist, and one thats paid his dues.
Tim Schaefer
WKZE-FM
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