Tag Archives | Kristen Wright

Album Review: Kristen Wright, “In The Year Of Letting Go”

Kristen WrightKristen Wright is a Nashville up-and-comer with a sweet but powerful voice, and the kind of creative singer-songwriter spirit you only (truly) find on rare occasion. Her album “In The Year Of Letting Go” is her first recording project, the culmination of years of writing and honing her craft at Belmont University.

The six song EP seems to be the perfect introduction for Kristen. She wrote, arranged and produced each song on the album. The lyrics are creative and introspective but also universal, telling beautiful stories. The music is acoustically driven, all featuring a prevalent acoustic guitar or piano, and her effortless voice ranges somewhere between Joy Williams of The Civil Wars and Joss Stone. (How I came up with those two, I’ll never know… but listen, and let me know if I’m wrong.)

While each song is poignant, the song Quitter gained Kristen quick notoriety and a spot in Belmont University’s coveted Fall Follies show. The song has a slow-tempo, jazzy, lounge feel to it, showcasing Kristen’s vocal range and some amazing instrumentation including a viola.

For those indie or singer-songwriter fans, take a listen to this one. It’s a refreshing departure from mainstream, although songs like Quitter would be well deserved to find a place in the radio.

For more information on Kristen, visit http://kristenwright.tumblr.com

“In The Year of Letting Go” track listing:

  1. High Wire
  2. You And I
  3. Rabbit Trail
  4. Quitter
  5. Love Letter
  6. Peace Is Well
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The McCrary Sisters, The Kicks Bring the House Down at Musicians Corner

Marc Scibilia and Umbrella Tree Round Out a Fantastic Lineup on Saturday in Centennial Park

On Saturday, Musicians Corner almost looked like it wouldn’t take place about half an hour before show time. Despite a great weather forecast, the heavens opened at 2:30 and it monsooned on Centennial Park. The power was shut off and volunteers ran for cover. Yet somehow, at 2:50 the skies cleared, the power was turned back on and we were back in business for a great afternoon full of music.

Musicians Corner

To kick off the day was special guest Steve Moakler. He played two acoustic songs, including his “first attempt at a country song,” and got the crowd warmed up for Marc Scibilia. Marc also played acoustically to serenade the crowd with his alternative bluesy style. He brought up the second special guest of the day, music dynamo Tommy Sims.

First up on the Lightning 100 Acoustic Stage was MC’s own Kristen Wright singing beautiful songs from her newest album “In the Year of Letting Go.” Following Kristen on the main stage were The McCrary Sisters who absolutely took us to church. The three sisters (there are normally four, but one unfortunately could not make it) had everyone clapping and standing with their powerful gospel music.

The Kicks

After a beautiful Spring Quartet by Benjamin Chakoran Jones on the Acoustic Stage and the coveted Dog of the Day award, Umbrella Tree took the stage. This duo is nothing if not exciting to watch with their unique sound and energetic personalities.

The final Acoustic Stage act of the day was Poly, who played what can only be described as “happy music.” Then to close out the day were rockers The Kicks. The Kicks were actually supposed to play last season at Musicians Corner, but were forced to cancel due to illness. Boy was the crowd happy to have them back! Mixing classic, old school rock style with modern rock sensibilities and three-piece harmonies, these guys are superb. Think Rolling Stones meets Boston with an alternative twist.

Aside from the freak rain storm right beforehand, the day turned out perfect and sunny. Let’s hope it stays that way for next weekend when Andy Davis, Heypenny, Star and Micey, and Us and Our Daughters take the stage.

Musicians Corner is a non-profit program of The Conservancy for the Parthenon & Centennial Park. The spring season of runs every Saturday through June, and promises more great artists, special guests and fun activities. For additional information and the entire spring schedule please visit www.musicianscornernashville.com.

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