Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

It is quite possible that Mindy Smith will do for alt-country what Norah Jones has done for jazz! 'One Moment More' is an extraordinary debut album from this 30 something whose songs belong beyond the borders of country music and the walls of the Church in the same way that Buddy and Julie Miller manage to create rootsy music that explores themes of humanity and redemption. Adopted by a minister and his wife, raised on Long Island and spending years growing up with church music, instead of a quiet debut album and slow growth towards prominence, this album has seen Mindy explode Stateside. Her version of Dolly Parton's "Jolene" on a tribute album started the fuss but it's the bluegrass-tinged song "Come To Jesus" from this album that has set pulses racing in the USA. Astoundingly this gorgeous rootsy song of faith has been a huge chart hit and though there isn't another song here as obvious, the album is packed with superb music and Mindy's songs are strongly influenced by her faith. From the lilting "Raggedy Anne" to the moody rocking "Hard To Know" Smith demonstrates that she is already an artist to be reckoned with.

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