It is a true sign of talent when an artist can make a sad story seem so beautiful to the eye of the beholder. Such is the case whether the art is presented on canvas, through poetry or, in Jill Andrews’ case, in song. Even though she is relatively new to the music scene, Andrews has quickly been able to craft this art form. She sings songs of broken relationships and bad luck, but her delivery brings a smile to the face nonetheless.
Andrews began her musical career when she met Sam Quinn while working at a summer camp. Together, they formed The Everybodyfields in Johnson City, Tenn. The Everybodyfields enjoyed regional success, as well as some national acclaim, playing festivals such as Bonnarroo and touring with label mates The Avett Brothers. With lovely harmonies shared between Andrews and Quinn, their mix of folk, bluegrass and country had started to spread to the masses.
However, after moving the band to Knoxville and releasing three albums, the band called it quits in 2009. Andrews wasted no time working on her own solo material, releasing an EP in late 2009. The songs had a familiar sound to fans of The Everybodyfields. In fact, a few of the songs from the EP had been performed by the band on tour. In 2011, Andrews released her first full-length album,
The Mirror. Even though there are still hints of that familiar alt-country sound once again, Andrews added a new twist to this album by adding some pop-influenced, upbeat songs. However, even though songs like The Mirror and Another Man contain more upbeat melodies than before, the lyrics underneath once again tell beautiful sad stories, a trademark that has become Jill Andrews.
Andrews was busy in 2011 touring in support of her new album, and touring continues into 2012. She will perform in downtown Chattanooga on Thursday, Feb. 2 at Rhythm & Brews.
