Pride of Nowhere
The Smoking Hearts
If you’re in the mood for big, chunky riffs, a barnstorming collection of out-and-out rock and songs that never outstay their welcome beyond that pesky three-minute mark, Smoking Hearts could be the band for you. Over the course of just under half an hour, the five-piece from rural England certainly leave a lasting impression. Of course, their brand of battering ram guitars and thundering drums won’t be to everyone’s taste, but hey – they’re probably old and watch Emmerdale, right? It’s a great album to drink, party and blow away the cobwebs. Whether they crack the music scene on this debut remains to be seen, but for a band who revel in their sense of fun and an admirable ‘fuck it’ attitude, this lot are definitely showing the way.
Reviewed by Pete Muscutt
