Woodsmith Jr. - Hidden Tales

Woodsmith Jr is the alter ego of Kris Stynen. The name is a reference to both grandfathers, a carpenter and a blacksmith.  His debut single "52 Tunnels" was released in May 2021.  The passage of harmonica virtuoso Steven De Bruyn in this song was followed up on a number of other recordings, as well as live performances. 

HIDDEN TALES

The debut album "Hidden Tales" tells stories about love, loss, self-reflection... The lyrics are introspective, the compositions melodious.  The music style combines influences of folk, blues, bluegrass, rock and indie with both traditional and modern influences. The lyrics are often emotionally charged that resonate with a wide audience.

Woodsmith Jr. takes you on a bluesy journey to British and American folk with his debut, a pure and sober album that will certainly touch fans of the genre. For example, fans of Richard Thompson or John Martyn will undoubtedly remain insensitive to the hidden stories of Woodsmith Jr. In short, an artist to discover.

In addition to ten of his own compositions, the album contains a unique cover of 'Our Daily Reminders' by Zita Swoon.  The common thread in the album is undoubtedly the 'travis picking' guitar. This very recognizable guitar technique is characterized by a steady rhythmic bassline and a free, melodic top layer.

In addition to Steven De Bruyn, a number of other well-known musicians were present on the album.  Mario Goossens (Triggerfinger) and Cas Kinnaer (ILA) alternate on drums, Gijs Hollebosch (Les Guitares Magiques, Lieven Tavernier) adds color with dobro. Jasper Hautekiet adds on double bass, and Fiona Brown on backing vocals.  Producer on duty, Mattias Stynen (ILA), also refines the whole with layers of keyboard, electric guitar and bass. 

CONCERTS

Woodsmith Jr usually performs his songs in front of a live audience as a solo artist.  He also works with the aforementioned Steven De Bruyn, and recently also with Raf 'Lazy Horse' Timmermans (Les Guitares Magiques, Filip Kowlier, Guido Belcanto, Big Dave, Elmore D....).  The own repertoire is supplemented with some idiosyncratic covers from various genres. 

TRACKLISTING:

Troubled Mind

Black Orchid

Mosquito Madness

52 Tunnels

Our Daily Reminders

The Other Line

Blue Notes

Untangle All The Lines

He’s Called Jo

A Hidden Tale

Can I Only