Scotland on Sunday * * * *
May 4th 2008

Rooted in the songs of her native Dumfriesshire, the music of Emily Smith looks to current folk stylings rather than old traditions. On keys and accordion she leads a six-strong band through reworkings of old balladics. But it’s her own songs that come to the fore. ‘The Mermaid of Galloway’ is set in a shuffling rhythm, while ‘Sunset Hymn’ is a lovely poppy slice of country folk. With her sweet tuneful vocals, varied arrangements and clean production values, Smith is set to garner an ever-expanding audience.
Norman Chalmers