[FM] Re: Chris Smither

[David Elbert]

Dear F_M Listers (are we listing from too much News Years revelling?? :)

David Broida made a quick mention of Chris Smither's recent 
performance and associated recognition... I felt the need to throw 
two more cents in with a little testimonial.  Maybe it is because 
Smither has been around a while and isn't the "latest, greatest" 
discovery, but  I find that I meet lots of music fans who have 
overlooked him.  Just in case you are one of those people, let me say 
that seeing him live is an extraordinary treat.  There are very few 
people that I feel absolutely confident, even excited, about 
recommending to friends who don't share my taste for 
all-thing-singer-songwriter.  But Chris Smither is pretty much 
guaranteed to satisfy (IMHO, Greg Brown is another such artist who 
fits that bill).

Smither is a great guitarist, wonderful singer and terrific 
showman... in a comfortable, laid-back way.  And I think that his 
writing has just gotten stronger and stronger, if that is possible. 
His releases from the last 5 or 10 years are all marked by songs with 
smart, interesting, graceful and sometimes magical lyrics with great 
melodies.  He is a genuine treasure; don't miss seeing him life if 
you can possibly do it.

And if that isn't a strong enough endorsement, check out his killer 
duet with Louise Taylor on her song "Too Tired To Leave", from her 
great 1997 release, "Ride"!

OK... maybe that was four cents...

Happy 2002-
David Elbert
elbert@jhu.edu