Self-released, the album was recorded with fan funding allowing Smith to bypass the need for a record label.

It pulls from the deep well of American blues and many of its offshoots including soul, country and folk. Smith's previous efforts have been praised by MTV for their "rich blend of soul and Americana" and by the New York Times for their "languid, easy vocals." Smith is supporting the record with a national tour, see reverse for a complete list of dates.

In 2007 Smith embraced his industry outsider status upon leaving his label. "Not having to seek approval for my songs or my direction as an artist became too tempting for me," notes Smith. "It was great to work with people who were so passionate about my music, but I needed to forge my own path. For me, it has become about creating a tribe and building a deeper connection with my audience." Smith turned to that audience for help, raising money for his next record via his website. Additionally, fans in D.C. organized a fundraising concert which netted thousands more. Other fans donated goods and services to the cause ranging from web services to road cases for Smith's equipment.

His innovative approach didn't stop there. Smith traveled to Kingston, NY to record with producer Malcolm Burn (Neville Brothers, Iggy Pop, Emmylou Harris), where Burn's idea was to make a record where every song contrasted the one preceding. After a week of intense recording Smith returned to New York to flesh out the songs with strings and horns. "I was really thinking about contrasts like light and dark, dense versus stark," Smith explains. "I also had a desire to include a wider range of musicians. Living in New York, I've met and worked with so many talented people that I found myself pairing them in my mind with specific songs."

Smith's fourth record, Lights On is the follow-up to 2006's self-titled effort. Hailing from Syracuse, Smith now resides in Brooklyn and continues to tour extensively across the U.S.

JONAH SMITH