Ruthie Purves Smith - Piano In the Field (2024)

This interesting set comes from a Canadian singer-songwriter whose focus is the downtrodden, the destitute & people who essentially lost hope. Now despite the topics Ms. Smith has woven into her melodies, it doesn’t necessarily translate to music that’s a downer.

Here, the heavy subjects are challenges since the artist isn’t relying on the typical song developments many mainstream competing artists choose to lay out like many pizza slices. Instead, through Ruthie’s own experience she chooses to suggest something with more nutrients. She writes about what she knows & she’s aware of the hardships of the people who have fallen between society’s cracks.

There are 11 compelling original tales recorded in Calgary, Alberta, Canada at Dog In The Window Records for Piano In the Field. A showcase produced by Derek Pulliam (bass on “Heavy For Us All”) & Jonathan Lagore (electric & acoustic guitars/banjo).

Music-wise Ruthie has the appropriate vocal application for these folky-country slices much the way Ferron, Cydny (Cindy) Bullens & Cris Williamson often approached their material. The arrangements are well-thought, especially the vocals on “Call An Angel,” which glides steadily through a folky element with a nice warm glossy gospel discipline. Musicians are tight & the only criticism. It would’ve been better if it faded out & not just abruptly ended.