Do you enjoy music that seems like the sounds of a family reunion? If so, Lenny Smith has got the stuff you've been looking for. His sound is reminiscent of The Welcome Wagon or a weathered Sufjan Stevens with a pinch more of that hometown grit. His latest release You Are My Hiding Place is a conglomeration of heartfelt songs of praise and prayers to the Lord. Musically, the songs are communal with eclectic arrangements that feel like they belong on a Jared Hess film soundtrack. Some might be put off by that but it truly is something unique and strangely special. Songs like "Teach Me My God," "You Are My Hiding Place," and "You Are A Good Shepherd" are rich in affection and Biblical depth; not to mention the instrumentation is reminiscent of Harry Nilsson. "Ask Me Not To Leave You" and "All Things Work Together For Good" are excellent examples of useful and gifted ways of implementing scripture through song – but honestly there is less adaptation and more readings with a melody. The album concludes with the sincere declaration of praise in "With All My Heart." It's a sweet song of commitment to the Lord, and the message is reinforced with the sweet crowd vocals throughout the track. This is music without an apology or fear of radio stations not liking the sound of the artist; and it is that blatant freedom that gives this album more weight than most. Overall, I don't imagine everyone diving headfirst into this album; as a matter of fact, most people may think it's almost not serious – but it is! And in that respect, Smith has made a beautiful work of art. Unfortunately, it will more than likely get overlooked by shiny or newer contemporary music, but I say, "Nay! Give this album a chance!" It may grow on you or at the very least make you wonder if current contemporary artists are actually writing songs inspired by the Word of God and not just really nice things to make the masses feel good about themselves. This reviewer may be drinking the Kool-Aid but Lenny Smith, your art is without a doubt unusual but most definitely special.

- Review date: 3/16/17, written by Ryan Barbee of Jesusfreakhideout.com

 

 Record Label: Great Comfort Records
 Album length: 12 tracks: 40 minutes, 45 seconds
 Street Date: November 23, 2016
 Buy It: iTunes
 Buy It: Bandcamp
 Buy It: Amazon Music

1. Teach Me, My God (3:14)
2. Ho! Everyone Who Thirsts (3:28)
3. There Is A River (3:17)
4. You Are My Hiding Place (3:23)
5. You Are A Good Shepherd (4:27)
6. Who Is This One (2:53)
7. City, O City (3:18)
8. Eyes Have Not Seen (3:21)
9. Ask Me Not To Leave You (3:21)
10. Tell Me, O You (4:04)
11. All Things Work Together For Good (3:11)
12. With All My Heart (2:48)