Smoke It And See – Smoke It And See 7″ (Black Guitar Records)

Smoke It And See‘s debut 7″ record thrusts the listener headlong into a sonic universe unapologetically rooted in the gritty landscapes of Seattle grunge, the rebellious spirit of Detroit garage rock, and the timeless essence of pure rock ‘n’ roll. The project of Willard’s Mark Spider and Otis P Otis, coupled with the vocal and bass prowess of Green Apple Quick Step’s Mariann Breaden, and the rhythmic finesse of Geoff Reading, this quartet embarks on a nostalgic and refreshingly contemporary musical journey.

“Rockstar,” the opening track, bursts forth with a torrent of relentless energy, speed, and sheer power. Spider and Otis, the guitar maestros, deliver irresistibly raw and fuzzy riffs, creating a noise that pays homage to the foundational elements of grunge and garage rock. Breaden’s vocals soar above the distortion, providing a perfect counterpoint to the wall of sound, while her bass work adds a warm and weighty foundation. The interplay between Spider and Otis is a standout feature, displaying a musical symbiosis that effortlessly weaves through the recognizable elements of Seattle’s sonic legacy. The result is an addictive concoction of abrasive textures and tastefully arranged solos that solidify Smoke It And See’s sonic identity.

“Room 909” offers a stark contrast to the frenetic pace of “Rockstar.” Here, the band explores a calmer, almost doom-rock ambiance. The deliberate tempo allows each instrument its own moment in the spotlight, showcasing the band’s versatility and willingness to traverse diverse sonic landscapes. Geoff Reading’s drumming prowess takes center stage, providing the backbone of the band’s sonic assault. From well-accentuated beats, fills, and breaks to other percussive acrobatics, Reading’s precision and finesse significantly contribute to the overall impact of each track, showcasing his skills as a formidable force behind the kit. Mariann Breaden’s vocals emerge as a focal point, adding a layer of complexity that elevates the entire sonic experience. Her ability to skillfully balance between low, mid, and high notes enhances the dynamic range of the compositions, creating a nuanced and multifaceted listening experience.

The limited edition white-colored 7″ vinyl, with cover art by Dario Seawolf Dee Vavassori, adds a tactile and visual dimension to the release. Limited to 100 copies, it reflects the exclusivity of this debut offering, making it a collector’s item for enthusiasts of the band’s burgeoning discography. Smoke It And See’s debut 7″ exemplifies their prowess in channeling the spirit of grunge, garage rock, and rock ‘n’ roll. With a perfect amalgamation of raw energy, technical proficiency, and charismatic vocals, the band solidifies its place in the contemporary music landscape. This limited edition vinyl is not merely a record; it’s an immersive journey into the foundations of pure rock ‘n’ roll music.Head to their Bandcamp page for more information about ordering.