One Moment More (2004)

This Long Island minister's daughter moved to Nashville nearly broke. Five years of patient performing and writing later, she was tapped to sing ''Jolene'' on a Dolly Parton tribute and to make her debut CD. In a bold, wistful alto that recalls Alison Krauss and Patty Griffin, Smith offers rocking folk gospel, understated studies of insecurity and loss, and pacifying pleas for faith. Some, like the I-will-conquer ode ''Fighting for It All,'' could use more lyrical daring, but Smith's is a striking new voice.