Review / 200 Words Or Less
Smoking Popes
Stay Down

Appeal (2008) — Sean K.

Smoking Popes – Stay Down cover artwork
Smoking Popes – Stay Down — Appeal, 2008

Can't say that I was too familiar with this band's music. But after seeing them at a recent intimate club show, I walked away convinced. A break-up of many years has done nothing to dull their songwriting chops. This record is brimming with catchy songs right from the first note. "Welcome to Janesville" kicks things off with a power pop punch, and everything after goes full tilt. By the time we get to the last song, the acoustic "First Time," I feel like I need a bottled water to pour over my head. Think if Morrissey fronted The Plimsouls and you may get a sense of what's on tap. Hopefully this release will push them out of the Midwest and into the nation's consciousness. Maybe someone in DC is a closet fan?

7.5 / 10 — Sean K. • February 11, 2009

Smoking Popes – Stay Down cover artwork
Smoking Popes – Stay Down — Appeal, 2008

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