Last Thursday night, an unforgettable concert was nestled in the heart of a buzzing Lincoln Square. Renowned folk singer Mindy Smith filled the Old Town School of Folk Music to the brim with infectious sounds and an absolutely pure love for the music she provided.

While she is not yet a household name, Smith is held in the highest esteem within the folk world. She has been covered by the angelic Alison Krauss and Dolly Parton herself proclaimed Mindy’s cover of her famous “Jolene” the best she had ever heard.

During Thursday’s concert the singer was in the midst of fighting bronchitis, but delivered a show that was infused with energy and humor. Her illness did nothing more than provide a few deliciously raspy high notes. Smith is sprightly and delicate, but would spontaneously break into a deep and guttural laugh that left the whole audience in a fit of giggles.

It is rare for an artist to initiate such an intimate concert experience. Mindy’s music is breathtaking. As she sings, she transports you to another world completely. When she breaks between numbers, though, and talks with her audience it is as if she is chatting with an old friend.

Mindy must know the power of her voice but her humility is striking. With nothing more than herself, her guitar, another guitarist, and a drummer, she left a hoard of thrilled audience members in her wake.

The artist delivered a magical encore that included “One Moment More,” one of her most famous songs. Mindy wrote the song soon after her mother passed away. Her beautifully wavering voice did not leave a single dry eye in the house. Smith’s ability to stand vulnerable and expose herself to her audience makes her truly graceful.

Mindy brought her show to a close with a dynamic performance of “Jolene.” Her cover of the famous song is electrifying and the audience burst into applause at the first chord. Her distinct rendition was the perfect way to close the night.

Mindy’s spontaneity and talent are not easy to forget; her lively and flawless sound remains ringing in your ears long after you have left your seat.