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Something Different from Seattle !

Dave98124 | Seattle, Washington | 03/22/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I first heard this band last fall on the Mountain, a Seattle radio station. The song was "Step Outside" a catchy pop-soul number. I was surprised they were a local band because everything around here has an alternative or grungy sound, something I've grown tired of. The CD features a variety of musical styles. At times they sound like The Black Crows meet The Stones ("Noise like Tamborines"), at other times like Van Morrison crossed with a little Motown ("Step Outside"). "Down the Road" has a country-rock feel, "Blue Eyes" sounds a little like the bluesy Southern rock of the Allman Brothers. "Keep On Calling Me" has a Dylan-like feel with a catchy chorus. There's even a little New Orleans-style funk in some of the other tunes. This is a young band with it's own take on some very cool classic rock influences. Everyone I've turned on to this CD loves it. See them live if you get a chance--they pack clubs here in the Northwest and put on a great show."

Energetic, passionate, rockin', Left Hand Smokin'

clappstar | Seattle, WA United States | 12/14/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have seen this band in clubs in Seattle and happened upon them playing a venue at Whistler BC and have been a fan every time, dancing and singing along with the great tunes and thoughtful lyrics. This CD was apparently an independent production, but by listening to it you'd say they were old pros. Listen for the harmonica, the guitar solo, the hoot and holler of Ben (the lead singer)...Listen for the back-up vocals by Ronan. This music has classic roots...people rocking to an outdoor festival in the 70s could have easily grooved to the hits on this CD. My favorites: Blue Eyes Shining, Step Outside, Keep on Calling. Make Sure you see them live, they play some great cover songs. You'd better bring your dancing shoes! Oh and before they were Left Hand Smoke, they were a college band playing at University of Washington and Seattle University under the name Shane's Brother's Band."

Left Hand Smoke will be loudly heard from in the near future

Dave98124 | 06/05/1999

(4 out of 5 stars)

"The song writing ability of Ben Mish should be considered exciting and worthy of respect by all who hear the songs on Left Hand Smoke's self titled debut release. The lead guitar work of Will Mish is breathtaking. It does not take long to realize that he has the ability to join the very exclusive club of legendary Seattle guitar players. The wide variety of song styles displayed on this album showcases the range of creativity and skill this musical machine called Left Hand Smoke possesses. Once you hear Down the Road you will have to play it at least once more directly afterward and the lyrics of Keep on Calling demand the listeners attention and stir emotions about relationships that reside in us all. One thing all of the songs on this amazing first effort have in common is that they have a truly contageous effect on your feet and mind. The raw energy from this band will captivate you and convince anyone that they surely will be a group to be respected in this industry. The searing guitar and rabid harmonica scream of an obvious Chicago blues influence and the sharpness of the lyrics reveal a Bob Dylan background in Ben Mish's style, while still remaining wonderfully original and refreshing. The four stars I feel this release deserves is not given lightly. Jared Whitaker"