Smokehowl - Pirate Song
Alternative/Alt. Rock, Folk, Rock
Michigan, United States
Overall Impression: Rock band Smokehowl raises a glass with the release of their new Ska-influenced Punk tune Pirate Song. While adorned with a swash-buckling moniker, this is not a sea shanty as the title may lead listeners to believe. Coming in strong, Pirate Song features a chunky, Punk groove and upbeat tempo to support the gritty vocals. This roughness is smoothed over and given a Ska-treatment by the horn section in the chorus. Lyrically, Pirate Song is looking for love, or something resembling love, and it has its eyes on you. The sincerity of the lyrics is overshadowed by song's attitude, leaving the impression of a drunken romantic outburst. The sloshy inebriation of the guitar solo may turn away a few purists, but in the case of Pirate Song - it is totally effective. There is a rough and tumble identity to Pirate Song that the music, guitar solo included, reflects. Overall, Pirate Song by Smokehowl has the wildness and attitude needed for an enjoyable and memorable listen.
Strongest Point(s): The music and groove are everything with Pirate Song. The main riffs have a folksy element that evokes the idea of a pirate song. Fans of Irish-Punk and Gypsy-Punk bands from the East Coast will undoubtedly dig Smokehowl's musical approach to this tune.
Target Audience Appeal: Fans of Rock, Punk, and Ska will dig Pirate Song by Smokehowl.
Artist target suggestions: Gogol Bordello, Modest Mouse, Franz Ferdinand, Dropkick Murphys, Flogging Molly, NOFX, Less Than Jake, Reel Big Fish, Ludo, The Raconteurs, The White Stripes, 311, Primus
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About the Reviewer:
Zachary Larson is a professional touring guitarist and multi-instrumentalist. Getting his start in high school rock bands, he has since toured as a classical chamber musician, onboard luxury cruises, and with the Broadway musicals Finding Neverland and Escape To Margaritaville. His recorded work spans from classical works and pop tunes, to mind-bending experimental music. His arrangements of orchestral music are published through Clear Note Publications. Classically trained, he holds a Master of Music degree from the University of Denver.