Liverpool Sound and Vision Rating * * * *
From The Outset: A declaration of intent to hit the ground running, to display the virtue of good work that you intend to carry forward in to the world; and one that is more than a project, it is a calling of faith in your ability to be a version of yourself that cannot be denied, that sings, that plays harder than anything you have done before.
The trio that make up the Glasgow based neo traditional band, Project Smok seem to have learned from the best of athletes who emerge and seen running from the ‘B of the Bang’ and this sound hits the listener immediately as if there were no time for the subtly of introduction, for as the majestic pace and pleasure of the album becomes abundantly clear, so The Outset is to be seen as vigorously enviable release.
The Trio, Ali Levack, Ewan Baird, Pablo Lafuente, and Duncan Lyall, who acts as guest musician and producer, combine so well that the dynamo of the machine is bright and insistent, it carries a drama of music that more than catches the ear, it is silk to the touch, and the excitement of the task is obviously one uncontained from its inception.
Melody is often underrated in an age of course musical language, the difficulty of gaining attention for the dedication and willingness to blend a traditional style with Pop overflows and electronic fervour, however it must be noted just how well the members of Project Smok arrange the soulfully immersed tracks.
Melodious and vibrancy, perhaps what we look for in a human being without being conscious of it, for the pair epitomise the attention required to be stimulating company, and as tracks such as 1984, Baltimore, The Ruster, and Smile lead the way in the instrumental recording, and whilst there may not be a physical voice to drive it, it is positively encouraged to see that as a plus of emotional insight; for often the voice can hinder, the instruments used the true expression in which to be influenced by.
A wonderful and desirous album, one that from the outset explodes with musical fortune.
Project Smok release The Outset via all streaming platforms on Friday 19th January and in physical format now from www.projectsmok.com.
Ian D. Hall