Smug Brothers
Another Bar Behind The Night (EP)
Anyway/Just Because Records [2024]
Album Overview: Smug Brothers, hailing from Ohio, have consistently delivered indie-rock music characterized by catchy hooks and killer lo-fi melodies. With Kyle Melton leading as singer, guitarist, and songwriter, alongside bassist Kyle Sowash, guitarist Ryan Shaffer (Stark Folk Band), and Don Thrasher on drums, their music often exhibits an infectious charm and a sense of genuine rock enthusiasm. Over the years, the band has built a veteran reputation for crafting concise, engaging tunes that resonate with a diverse audience. Another Bar Behind The Night is an EP that offers a collection of six tracks, encapsulating the band’s signature indie rock sound within a brief yet impactful 10-minute runtime. The songs are marked by their upbeat nature and melodic richness as each track has an overall dynamic feel that we have come to expect from Smug Brothers.
Musical Style: The EP showcases a blend of indie rock with elements of pop and psychedelic influences. The instrumentation features lively guitar riffs, energetic drum patterns, and strong basslines, creating a sound that is both engaging and multilayered. The band’s ability to incorporate different musical elements while maintaining a cohesive sound is evident throughout the EP.
Evolution of Sound: Compared to their previous releases, Another Bar Behind The Night continues their refined approach to songwriting and arrangement found on last year’s full-length In The Book Of Bad Ideas. The band stays true to their core indie-rock roots while highlighting their growth in delivering quality track after quality track.
Artists with Similar Fire: It is easy to make the Dayton, Ohio connection here with Guided By Voices and the music sensibilities of Tobin Sprout. Also, Cleaners From Venus offers a similar blend of lo-fi aesthetics, catchy melodies, and a DIY spirit. You can also hear the pop sensibility of The Chills in this EP, along with R. Stevie Moore, often considered the godfather of home recording.
Pivotal Tracks: Key tracks on the EP include “Javelina Nowhere,” which opens the EP with its cheerful guitar work and rhythmic drive, creating one of the Smug Brothers’ catchiest songs to date. “Shedding Polymer” stands out with its quick shifts in guitar and captivating hooks. “Seamus and the Younger” also deserves mention for its big rock sound in a small package that is both energetic and has an unexpected psychedelic twist.
Lyrical Strength: The lyrics on Another Bar Behind the Night complement the music and reflect a sense of wonder and curiosity, inviting listeners to share in the band’s discoveries and experiences. The lyrical content enhances the spirited vibe of the EP.
SMUG BROTHERS REVIEW HISTORY
In The Book Of Bad Ideas (2023) / Serve A Thirsty Moon (2019) / All Blur And Spark (2019) / Attic Harvest (2019) / Disco Maroon (2017) / Echo Complex Split EP (2016) / Woodpecker Paradise (2015) / On The Way To The Punchline (2014)
SMUG BROTHERS LINKS
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Bandcamp | Anyway Records | Just Because Records
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