#674 : Wonderful Smiths - (self-titled) (PhillyCheezeBlues.Blogspot.com)

2024 – Wonderful Smiths

By Phillip Smith; April 16, 2024

 

Original source : phillycheezeblues.blogspot.com

 

I was first introduced to the music of Wonderful Smiths in the winter of 2023 at the second annual da’Bluesapalooza in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The band played a stellar set of music, turning me into an instant fan. Wonderful Smiths are an Iowa-based blues-rock band which brings to the stage a high-energy show filled with excitement and a ripping array of songs. Fronted by Adam Springer on lead/rhythm guitar and lead vocals, the band is comprised of lead/rhythm guitarist Drew Hurn, bassist Nate Kofron, and drummer/percussionist Dustin Duwa. Their debut all-original release is a self-titled five track EP which certainly leaves me wanting more.

The record opens strong with “West Coast Turnaround”. Boasting fierce riffs and a fearless approach reminiscent of The Black Crowes, the song quickly sinks its claws in.  Emotions run deep on breakup ballad “Through the Night”. It is wonderfully melodic and boldly infectious. I love the power-pop guitar opening and soulful vocals on “Timing and Everything”. It’s a damn good jam. I dig the Seventies Rolling Stones vibe on “Getting Over”.  The EP ends with the relaxed, rootsy swagger of “Sunday Sound”. Beautifully performed and masterfully topped with slide, this acoustic track gives Springer generous space for his voice to shine. 

This is as strong as a debut recording can get. Wonderful Smiths prove they are indeed a force to be reckoned with on the music scene.

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For more information about Wonderful Smiths, visit their website at https://wonderfulsmiths.com/ 

EP available on BandCamp

#369 : Wooden Nickel Lottery - Long Time Running

2018 – Violet Isle Records

By Phillip Smith; Jan. 05, 2019

Wooden Nickel Lottery, a four-piece band hailing from eastern Iowa, continues their tradition of producing a unique blend of rock, country, and blues with their third and latest release, Long Time Running.  The pairing of Rick Gallo’s soulful vocals with Rich Toomsen’s high energy guitar sounds great as bassist Jessica Toomsen, and drummer Delayne Stallman forge the pulse of a groovin’ rhythm section.  Of the nine tracks on the record, eight are notable originals written by Rich.       

Steeped in southern rock and paved with a Bob Seger vibe, title track “Long Time Running” is a badass tune evoking images of a cowboy on a mission.  I love listening to Rich rip it up on “The Right Man”.  This song is a true showcase for his guitar mastery.  A funky rhythm and a groovy contagious riff blows the doors open on “Drive By Love”, laying out the red carpet for Galllo’s signature voice.  “East to West” is a stellar favorite.  Rick’s smooth vocals take the reins, as the song energetically gallops in to an amazing listen featuring more blazing guitar from Rich and a hypnotic bass and drum backing from Jess and Stallman.    

With guest performances from Gerald Estella on organ and David Arnold on sax,  Long Time Running comes to a spectacular close with a stirring and beautiful cover of Sam Cooke’s “A Change is Gonna Come”.  This song is definitely worth checking out, and so is the album.     

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Other PhillyCheeze articles about Wooden Nickel Lottery : 

#325 : Tinsley Ellis / Wooden Nickel Lottery live @ The Redstone Room

https://phillycheezeblues.blogspot.com/2018/03/325-tinsley-ellis-wooden-nickel-lottery.html

Wooden Nickel Lottery - Down the Line

https://phillycheezeblues.blogspot.com/2016/07/wooden-nickel-lottery-down-line.html

      

For more information about the artist, visit this website..  https://www.woodennickellottery.com/