MP3 Smithfield Fair - 20 for 20

20 years of fluid Celtic-tinged acoustic pop from a quartet world-known for memorable original songs that have the weight of a century of Scottish tradition.

20 MP3 Songs
POP: Folky Pop, FOLK: Celtic Folk



Details:
Smithfield Fair has been described by critics as âa folksy Supertrampâ with âa distinct Peter Gabriel vibeâ. Meaning? They are hard to pin down, hard to pigeonhole, definitely indefinable.

The quartetâs music has been heard the world over on radio, television, internet radio, film, and stages ranging from festivals to concert halls to house concerts. Smithfield Fair is currently experiencing a fury of downloads from over 60 internet sites. Now in its 20th year, Smithfield Fair has never chosen the obvious musical path â exhibited on eleven albums â and continues to grow.

Despite change and growth, the members of this unusual acoustic and vocal quartet have always considered their music to be song-driven. Songwriters and composers in their own right, the members of Smithfield Fair present critically-acclaimed original compositions bearing strong imagery and message as a perfect complement to more traditional selections. The bandâs approach to traditional material from their shared Scottish heritage is fresh and brings an evolving and evocative presence to already timeless material. Not âthe normâ these days.

Beneath the motive power of Dudley-Brian Smithâs ringing guitar work is the exacting fury of Frangâs bodhran and percussion work and Bob Smithâs fluidly precise bass lines. The combination of that rhythmic muscle is the perfect structure over which to lay Jan Smithâs melodic and ethereal accordion work, and the groupâs hauntingly elegant vocal harmonies. Together, the members of Smithfield Fair create a dynamic atmosphere to transport listeners through time and space, away from their daily concerns and deposit them on safer ground with a feeling of hopefulness. Audiences consistently comment on the enormous sound the quartet achieves and the power and depth of the musical presentation. Reviewers have noted the groupâs live shows exhibit influences of folk, jazz, swing, pop, and Celtic, while remaining âa cohesively warm wholeâ.

Smithfield Fairâs active touring schedule includes a wide variety of carefully selected concerts, acoustic music festivals, house concerts and coffeehouses, but regardless of venue, the group preserves an intimate relationship with audiences. Smithfield Fair has built a strong following and continues to garner high critical praise for its music and presentation. The group has shared stages with a veritable âwhoâs whoâ of American roots and Celtic musicâs finest.