Customer Reviews

Left Hand Smoke

5 star:		(13)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I first heard this band last fall on the Mountain, a Seattle radio station. The song was "Step Outside" a catchy pop-soul number. I was surprised they were a local band because everything around here has an alternative or grungy sound, something I've grown tired of. The CD features a variety of musical styles. At times they sound like The Black Crows meet The Stones ("Noise like Tamborines"), at other times like Van Morrison crossed with a little Motown ("Step Outside"). "Down the Road" has a country-rock feel, "Blue Eyes" sounds a little like the bluesy Southern rock of the Allman Brothers. "Keep On Calling Me" has a Dylan-like feel with a catchy chorus. There's even a little New Orleans-style funk in some of the other tunes. This is a young band with it's own take on some very cool classic rock influences. Everyone I've turned on to this CD loves it. See them live if you get a chance--they pack clubs here in the Northwest and put on a great show.

I have seen this band in clubs in Seattle and happened upon them playing a venue at Whistler BC and have been a fan every time, dancing and singing along with the great tunes and thoughtful lyrics. This CD was apparently an independent production, but by listening to it you'd say they were old pros. Listen for the harmonica, the guitar solo, the hoot and holler of Ben (the lead singer)...Listen for the back-up vocals by Ronan. This music has classic roots...people rocking to an outdoor festival in the 70s could have easily grooved to the hits on this CD.

My favorites: Blue Eyes Shining, Step Outside, Keep on Calling.

Make Sure you see them live, they play some great cover songs. You'd better bring your dancing shoes!

Oh and before they were Left Hand Smoke, they were a college band playing at University of Washington and Seattle University under the name Shane's Brother's Band.

The song writing ability of Ben Mish should be considered exciting and worthy of respect by all who hear the songs on Left Hand Smoke's self titled debut release. The lead guitar work of Will Mish is breathtaking. It does not take long to realize that he has the ability to join the very exclusive club of legendary Seattle guitar players. The wide variety of song styles displayed on this album showcases the range of creativity and skill this musical machine called Left Hand Smoke possesses. Once you hear Down the Road you will have to play it at least once more directly afterward and the lyrics of Keep on Calling demand the listeners attention and stir emotions about relationships that reside in us all. One thing all of the songs on this amazing first effort have in common is that they have a truly contageous effect on your feet and mind. The raw energy from this band will captivate you and convince anyone that they surely will be a group to be respected in this industry. The searing guitar and rabid harmonica scream of an obvious Chicago blues influence and the sharpness of the lyrics reveal a Bob Dylan background in Ben Mish's style, while still remaining wonderfully original and refreshing. The four stars I feel this release deserves is not given lightly. Jared Whitaker

I saw these guys last night, actually, at the UPS Fieldhosue in Taccoma. They were the opener for Maroon 5... They didn't get much audience support, mostly because the entire venue was packed mostly with 14-year-olds looking for Maroon 5's pop-ish style. The rest of us, however, were blown away. They put on a great warm-up and had tons of stage presence. Something to watch out for, though. If you're looking for the same, high-octane music on their CD as you saw at the show, you might be a little disappointed. I picked up their disc on my way out the door, and while I find it really impressive, it's not the same thing. Good, but a little different.

There are a lot of bands out there that have the musical chops. When you see them live, you are inpressed by their command of the instruments. What separates most bands is the ability to write songs, and boy, can these guys write songs. I haven't been this impress by an album for quite a while. It crosses into different musical styles without missing a beat, and every song clicks. Hope they are making Milwaukee a future stop.

Wow. A friend gave me this CD for a christmas gift. He has seen them several times in Seattle and knew I would like them. These guys Rock! a fresh new hip sound that you don't come across very often! These guys have a potential to be huge...and huge quick!

This album is really easy to listen to. You don't get bored with it and it's good studying music, or dancing music. They have a unique sound. BUY IT!

In the tradition of Dave Mathews mixed with some light blues this album is on its way to the top. The music fits under more than one category and is enjoyable for a diversity of fans.

One of those albums that never gets old. Layers of quality, No "filler" songs.

This may be Left Hand Smoke's first album but there will be many more to come. LHS has so much going for them. They are young and in charge of their destiny and they are building a large and solid fan base every show they perform. They are not your typical one hit wonder like some may think since their release of "Step Outside". This album has so many songs that keep people listening to it. You can play it forever and not get tired of it. If you ever get a chance check out one of their shows they are incredible live!!! Just think, Dave Matthews started out playing small venues too, and look where he is now.