Smith channels her rural East Tennessee upbringing into a set of songs, one that’s flush with absolute enthusiasm and clear conviction. It’s an exceptional effort, one that asserts her independence while marking the arrival of an assured and impressive new talent. “I moved away but never moved on,” Rachel McIntyre Smith sings on “Glory Daze,” the opening track of her new EP by the same name. Watershed is indeed an apt title considering the emotional input, but at the same time, it also signals the fact that even this early on, The Belle Curves have proven their prowess. Every single song resonates through her compelling approach and the finesse and focus that’s invested in every offering. The articulate arrangements and solid songwriting belie the fact that this is only the second Belle Curves album to date, especially when one considers the fact that Hafener sounds so effortlessly informed. While certain songs focus on reflection and remorse, the tone and tenacity rings with anthemic intent overall.
The new Belle Curves album, Watershed, is a joyful and uplifting set of songs, and while the subject matter sometimes touches on sadder subjects, such as the homesickness that’s gleaned from life on the road, it’s a remarkably resilient album and one that captures attention straight from the get-go. Anything he offers will be well worth waiting for.ĭelaney Hafener, who goes under the nom de plume The Belle Curves, is well adept at channeling the sound of classic country music and putting it in the context of contemporary Americana. Hopefully, this is the first of many offerings Hubbard will have for us in the future. Taken in tandem, Billy Hubbard adds up to a stirring set of songs, one that marks its maker as a superb talent and one to be reckoned with. The songs resonate with empathy and emotion, while Hubbard’s expressive, sandpapery vocals and precise arrangements set the tone, ensuring that the songs themselves resonate with warmth and resilience. In the process, Hubbard takes an emphatic first step towards establishing himself as an important player in today’s American environs. Written and co-produced by Hubbard, the new album features an impressive array of talented guest musicians - among them, Grammy winner and Country Hall of Fame member Charlie McCoy (harmonica) and Shawn Camp of the Earls of Leicester (mandolin and fiddle). Singer/songwriter Billy Hubbard has spent plenty of time on the business side of the music industry - as a producer, promoter, A&R representative, and venue developer - but with his eponymous debut album, he steps behind the microphone with a compelling set of songs that reflect his verve and vitality.
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