Review by Danielle Boise
With the tag Americana music that moves the soul, Smokin’ Novas lives up to that statement and more with the release of the band’s self-titled debut album, which happens to be produced by Grammy award winning producer Don McCollister. The 10-tracks runs approximately 40 minutes and will fill you with every emotion possible –from the swells of sheer bliss to the pangs of a fragile heart. Smokin’ Novas masterfully fuses together the world of Americana and Folk with moments of nostalgia as the lyrics wrap intimately around the melodies to catch the listener in a truly perfect string of moments.
Smokin’ Novas start off with “Sunrise” a song filled with an earthy richness. “Crooked Smile” is that moment when you realize that you have to finally make room to fit in your life as yourself, no one else. “Wildflower Honey” by far is one of my personal favorite tracks on the album. The song is more than the tangy sweetness that the title indicates. With a true country hilt, the levels of sincerity are captured in the notes, lyrics and tone in this endearing love song with picture perfect images that causes the heart to smile and eyes to leak.
“Nightdriving” is a sexy escapism with “The mess you’ve been making is all your own design.” Every person has created their own chaotic hell from one time to another, “Nightdriving” reminds us to just get out of our own ways and drive through it. “Monteverde Ride” is a sleek song. I love the how the strings and percussion come together tightly on this song as they roll over the senses. The most personal song on the album is “Up on the Mountain,” which hit me hard. A touching tribute to loss and to learning how to come to terms with a missing piece of you. One that is so profound that it rewrites who you are. Yet, in all of that learning to live again and find joy in small moments.
The last track “Rosemarie” wraps the entire album up perfect note with a charming accolade to a loved one. The entire album is rich, full and lush. One that fully activates the senses. This is a album you will want to listen to more than once, and often.
Smokin’ Novas will be playing at Eddie’s Attic for their CD release party on Friday July 18. Tickets are available through Eddie’s Attic If you are fans of The Civil Wars, John Mayer or The Lone Bellows, then this is the band for you.