Blues/folk singer releases ‘Hundred Dollar Valentine’ at The Palms on Sunday

By Kate Laddish

Blues/folk singer, songwriter and guitarist Chris Smither brings his unique style and guitar work to The Palms, 13 Main St., in Winters at 7 p.m. Sunday for a CD release show for “Hundred Dollar Valentine.” Tickets are $25.

While many musicians can be categorized easily — by songwriter, instrumentalist, singer or stage presence — Smither’s talents are so multifaceted and intertwined as to make sleek categorization a moot point: Each piece of the puzzle is outstanding on its own, and when Smither fits those pieces together the larger picture that is formed draws audiences into a world that is beguiling, witty and wise.

Smither, who was raised in New Orleans, has long been considered a thoughtful lyricist and talented finger-picking acoustic guitarist. Bonnie Raitt — who refers to Smither as “my Eric Clapton” for both his songwriting and instrumental prowess — has recorded several of Smither’s songs, including her trademark “Love Me Like A Man”; other artists who have covered Smither’s music include Emmylou Harris and Diana Krall.

On Sunday, Smither will celebrate the recent release of “Hundred Dollar Valentine,” his 12th solo album and — surprisingly for somebody as revered for his songcraft — the first album to contain all originals. “Hundred Dollar Valentine” is quintessential Smither, complete with lyrics that ponder big issues but include a wink, dazzling guitar that sounds relaxed and Smither’s husky baritone vocals and instrumentation that bears the stamp of his New Orleans roots.

Tickets are available at Armadillo Music in Davis, Watermelon Music in Woodland, Pacific Ace Hardware in Winters, online at tickets.com and at the door if not sold out. For more information, call 530-795-1825, or visit palmsplayhouse.com or smither.com.