Nate Smith Nate Smith (CD)

(Arista) 20 tracks

The first thing Nate Smith said when asked about his self-titled debut album was, "It's not about me. It's about me reaching other people with music that means something. Nate's mission is to be a "channel of hope" with his music; a selfless and passionate driving force that is the theme of his songs. "I'm not trying to be cool, reinvent the wheel, or chase musical trends.... I'm going after the heart of the matter." The result is a refreshing and timeless body of work.

His journey to Nashville and the challenges he faced along the way are understandable in its gritty tone: Heartbreak, the loss of his hometown of Paradise, California, to the deadliest and most destructive fire in the state's history, and a determined road trip across the country to Music City, often sleeping in his car. Yet he found meaning and hope in it all. Like Nate, this collection of 20 songs is honest, raw, real and infused with optimism. He is fearless with his vulnerability - a trait that comes through not only in his lyrics, but also in his fragile yet robust voice. While each song tells its own story, Nate reveals two sides of his art with this project: deep, soulful ballads and fun-loving, upbeat country jams. Both are interwoven with undeniable hooks and his signature velvet thunder voice.