SHREDnews

By: Darlene

Chicago’s Smoking Popes paved the way for many punk bands.  They set the bar for bands such as Alkaline Trio and even Fall Out Boy.  Since 1991, they mixed the typical punk sound with the simple yet interesting voice of Josh Caterer.

This past Tuesday, Smoking Popes released It’s Been A Long Day on Asian Man Records.  It features many songs from past vinyl 7” and compilations including a song the band thought was long lost called “Long Day.”  All of the songs were recorded between 1991 and 1998.

Throughout the whole album, you can hear musical influences from the ‘80s with its grittiness and straightforward lyrics that cover everything from love to trying to get a new hairstyle.  Either way, it brings listeners back to a time where music was influential and meant a lot.

It’s Been A Long Day starts off with “Sandra,” which shows off this late ‘80s, early ‘90s style.  It has a prominent bass line with Josh Caterer’s semi-screaming and monotone-in-a-good-way voice.

Next is “Brand New Hairstyle,” which is not only about changing yourself aesthetically, but also being yourself.  He wants a new look to change his perspective on life and possibly proving that you’re okay to an ex.

That distinct bass line appears again in the long “Theme From ‘Cheerleader.”  The fast pace of the song puts an image in your head of punk shows and kids going nuts.

One of my favorite songs on the album is “Wanted Love,” especially because it encompasses Smoking Popes’ sound.  It comes with great lyrics, a few whoas and a good guitar solo.

“Down The Street” somewhat sounds like an old ‘50s song turned up with louder guitars and vocals.  “Writing your name on an overpass” displays their version of romance along with walking down the street with the person you life.  Unfortunately the love comes to an end but he wants to be more important than just an ex.

Smoking Popes have many songs that captivate you instantly and “Run Away” is a perfect example of it.  The song that got me singing along immediately.  Even though the chorus is simple, you’re going to catch yourself singing along right after the second return of the chorus.  Another one of those songs is “Writing A Letter.”  It’s so damn catchy and its scat-esque chorus just makes it.  Even though it may sound like a tactic to get away from writing words, I think it’s perfect.  Needless to say, Smoking Popes have found the formula of capturing their listener almost right away.

“Hang” combines acoustic guitar with an electric one, making a great and unique sound.  The drums again are reminiscent of the ‘50s simplicity.

The song “Long Day” has never been released before this album.  The intricate drums along with the guitars make it a technically great song.  Again they keep it simple with the chorus, but it’s one of the many things that make the band what they are before and even now.

“First Time” is quite a sad song.  It discusses a girl he loves (or at least used to love) with someone new.  He reflects on the past and how he was once in his place, which leads to sleepless nights.

The record closes with “Pasted,” a mellower song compared to the rest of the CD.  Josh Caterer really displays his more melodic vocals compared to the punk-influenced ones.  The guitars and other instruments aren’t as experimental either, but I think this shows how flexible and dynamic Smoking Popes really are.

I can honestly say I don’t have any complaints about this album.  I’ve loved this band for a while and it almost seems they can do no wrong.  It’s great to listen to the songs that weren’t on any major albums and even to hear the songs that have influenced so many popular bands that are around today.  The songs are quick and to the point, which was common for punk music then and occasionally even now.  To be able to make short songs and make it complete is sometimes a difficult feat to accomplish.

For Fans Of: Alkaline Trio, Bayside

Overrall Rating: 9/10

Top Tracks To Listen To: “Wanted Love,” “Run Away,” “Writing a Letter”

1. Sandra

2. Brand New Hairstyle

3. No Time for Your Lies

4. Missing Out

5. Theme from “Cheerleader”

6. Wanted Love

7. Run Away

8. Waiting Around

9. Down the Street

10. Never Coming Back

11. Breaking

12. Long Day

13. Writing a Letter

14. Stars

15. Under the Blanket

16. First Time

17. Hang

18. Leather and Lace

19. Do Something

20. Pasted