Smith Westerns – Dye It Blonde | 2011 | Fat Possum

Purchase at Insound

Smith Westerns self titled debut was a great first effort. Even with though it was extremely lo-fi, they showed great promise, leaving fans eager to see what good production would be able to do for the Chicago gang.

You can stop imagining, because Smith Westerns new album, Dye It Blonde is that dream put into reality. The unstoppable record label Fat Possum took the Chicago band under their wing with producer Chris Coady and produced a stellar effort.

On this 10 song album, the bands sound is taken to incredible new heights. “Weekend” was our first taste of cleaner sounding Smith Westerns, and its the perfect album opener. It bleeds of youthful exuberance and romantic hope. The combination of Cullen Omori’s light vocals and the glimmering guitar riffs will leave you in awe.

“Imagine Pt. 3” shines with bright energy, even if it’s penned with sad lyrics like “The look in your eyes makes me wanna die. You’re not the girl I used to know”. Just like everyone else, Smith Westerns are growing up and experiencing everything that life has planned for them on the way. Craving love is a huge theme on this album, but they never take it too seriously.

“All Die You”, the standout of the album, is an emotional ride through the tribulations of life. It’s a dramatic song that nearly causes time to stop when played. The boys change the tempo towards the end, transitioning into a playful reprise of “All die young, when love is love, and when you are young”. It’s their way of playing it all off. Their too young to get totally consumed by adulthood.

The thing that’s so great about these songs is their instant appeal. “Smile” has all the ambition of an early 90s brit-pop classic that would make the Gallaghers proud. It’s one of the many songs that will win you over. Ultimately it’s up to you to choose which songs are your favorite, because they’re all top notch.

Each song is packed to the brim with hooks and jangly guitars that you will fall in love with. These guys know how to create killer harmonies that have the perfect balance of catchy pop and emotional sincerity. They’re incredibly talented for their age, and they make it all seem so effortless. It’s almost criminal.

As a whole, Dye It Blonde stands incredibly tall. The most honest way to describe it is polished indie anthems with lots of heart. The scariest part is that these guys are only getting started. Imagine what they will be capable a few years from now?

Dye It Blonde’s arrival is perfect timing for me. I’m about the same age as these guys, and am still experiencing all that life has to offer. I have a feeling that I’ll be alright as long as I have these songs accompanying me on my journey.

Rating: 8.8/10

Smith Westerns – All Die Young

Smith Westerns – Weekend

Smith Westerns – Imagine, Pt. 3

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