Kenny & Amanda Smith Band

Tell Someone
Rebel Records

Kenny Smith has long been one of my favorite acoustic guitar players. Ever since his days with the Lonesome River Band, I’ve watched him from a distance.

I not only loved his guitar playing but I also loved his humble demeanor and attitude.

After all, the way this guy plays, he would have every right to be arrogant.

But after a little research, I know why he is the way he is: Smith is a Christian.

Not long after marrying Amanda, Smith left the Lonesome River Band and, together, they started the Kenny & Amanda Smith Band.

After listening to “Tell Someone,” I turned to my wife and said, “Someone was an Inspirations and Kingsmen fan.” Sure enough, the liner notes mention the influence of these two groups.

The Inspirations and Kingsmen cover tunes include “Someday Soon,” “Stepping on the Clouds” and “I’ve Got More to Go to Heaven For.”

Of special note is the band’s version of “Shoutin’ Time.” The Inspirations scored its first huge success with this song before The Hoppers released it as a huge hit a few years ago. The Smith band could release this and it be a hit for a third time.

The band also recorded the huge ’70s southern gospel hit “Free, Indeed.” This is the best version I’ve ever heard of this song.

Squire Parsons and Reagan Riddle also contribute original tunes on this amazing CD.

While every song on the album is good, I must bring special attention to “I Know Why,” written by former Kentucky Thunder guitarist Clay Hess.

This is a bona fide hit song for bluegrass and gospel radio alike. (Les Butler)