Arriving as the opening band (billy moon) started, I was able to hear a great lyrical song-writer with an exceptional band backing her. billy moon (this isn't a typo...they don't capitalize the band name) is led by Kristy Karen Smith, one of the nominees for Best New Artist in The Seattle Area Music Awards, also known as the SAMIE’s (Seattle Area Musical Innovation and Excellence). Kristy's husband and drummer, Steve Smith, (also owner of Seattle Drum School), was also nominated for best producer for billy moon's debut release "The Storm Before the Calm".

Already known around the Seattle area, Kristy Smith, and billy moon have opened for some major artists such as: Joan Baez, Little Feat, Bob Dylan, Jackson Browne, John Hiatt, Phil Lesh, Roseanne Cash, Bruce Hornsby, KD Lang, Chicago, Bonnie Raitt, Sting, Shawn Colvin, Bernie Taupin, The Paperboys, and The Crash Test Dummies. Her performance was a bit tough being the first band of a triple bill, but quickly won the heart of the audience

After a short break, Tiger Zane, one of the hardest working gals I've met in the Seattle music scene, and one of the main people behind organizing the evening's entertainment, took center stage with her band. Tiger was also nominated for Best Contemporary Performing Songwriter Album,
as well as Best New Artist. Tiger's band warmed the crowd up as The Tractor's audience grew. Heartfelt lyrics and creative hooks were the driving force behind Tiger's music, and her backing band was tight...nice fretless bass work too.