High Praise

Tell Someone (Rebel)

Kenny and Amanda Smith

By Bob Mitchell

Two of the nicest people in the world of bluegrass, Kenny and Amanda Smith, celebrate their faith in a compelling collection of sacred songs. The project, their third release for Rebel Records, is also the first all gospel recording.

Tell Someone showcases the singing of one of the industry's most gentle and sincere artists, Amanda. Designed to provide solace in a troubled world, each selection offers hope and healing. Kenny, a former IBMA guitarist of the year, not only displays extraordinary musical support for his wife but also provides a first rate lead vocal on two tracks. And, when one of them provides a harmony line for the other one, results are simply heavenly, especially on "Someday Soon," "Angels Calling At My Door," "One More Chance Lord," and "Free Indeed."

Highlights include a rousing "Shouting Time" with Rhonda Vincent, an exciting "Great Big Hand" and "Stepping On The Clouds," (with outstanding banjo work), the soulful "Till I Get Home," and "One More Chance Lord," and "Mary Had a Little Boy (with Kenny's marvelous guitar work).

Band members include Jason Davis (banjo), Zachary McLamb (bass), David Carwile (fiddle) and Jason Roberson (mandolin). I especially enjoyed McLamb's contribution in "Shoutin' Time," Carwile's bow work in "I Know Why," and Robertson's solid chops in "I've Got More To Go Too Heaven For."

On a five-point scale of religious excellence this release rates a divine five.

For more information go to www.rebelrecords.com.