smooth roasted - lovemaker

Smooth Roasted

Lovemaker
self-released; 2014

3.6 out of 5

By Ted Rogen

Smooth Roasted is the combined efforts of Nuno Silva (vocals, guitars), Luke Meisenbacher (bass, rhythm guitar and vocals on "Change Your Head") and Josh Reitan (drums). Last year’s release The Never Always EP was impressive, yet short, and their recent release Lovemaker is very much the same thing.  

The music is well written, catchy and also quite original. They open with a song called “Lovemaker,” which sounds like a combination of Mac DeMarco and Joy Division. I know that sounds a bit weird on paper but just take a listen. The bass and guitars do their own thing while the drummer holds down the fort. It’s a bit dark while also being kind of dance-y. The guitars are covered in chorus and reverb, which is why I think it reminded me of Mac DeMarco. 

“Lovermaker” revolves around what seems to be the tail end of a relationship. His lyrics aren’t without some humor as he sings “I can see it in your eyes/ I can feel it on your skin / I can even see it all in your hair / and I guess that means you'll always be our love maker.”

The second track “No Rain In the Distance” is the longest track and also the most sparse as it revolves around a lone acoustic guitar and vocals. It’s a pretty well written song and reminded me of acoustic love ballads you would hear in the ‘80s. I’ll take that. 

The band closes with “Change Your Head,” which was the highlight of the three songs. I love the funky bass line that combines with the super catchy vocal melody. The clean guitar and breakdown towards the end of the song is the cherry on top that solidifies the band’s talent.

Lovemaker is another fine effort but it feels like no more than an appetizer. Hopefully these guys will deliver a full-length next so I can get my fill. 

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