The Wolf Magazine

Issue date: 3/13/09 Section: Music and Entertainment

CD cover

One word to describe Smiley With A Knife's latest album, "How A Reign Comes to An End": Sexy. Or perhaps sensuous. These four New Orleans natives create a sound that awakens the senses and keeps listeners guessing throughout the album.

Their brand of rock is one that's smooth, unique and even a little funky. Some songs remind the listener of being on the beach, others of being at a hookah bar, and one even inspires listeners to start a mini mosh pit.

The album showcases skills from each member: Jared Marcell on drums, Justin Vicknair and Pat Bailey on guitars, and Mike Volpi on bass. Vicknair and Bailey's talents come through with crisp clear melodies. They work with, not against, each other.

Marcell gets to show off a bit during "I'm Just Doing My Job, Honey," with base hits and cymbals that sound like champagne bubbles bursting. And Volpi keeps the sound together with smooth, bonding bass riffs.
The song "And There Was a Pig Involved" - aside from having an intriguing title - surprises the listener with tempo changes and fun hand-claps. The cleverly placed "whoos" show the guys had a great time recording this song.

The final track, "Heads Will Roll," takes a slightly heavier turn. It begins as light funk but then descends into a darker place, complete with soft screams and chords that make the heart vibrate and shiver. Even though it sounds slightly metal, the guitarists do not neglect the melodies and keep their fingers dancing.

While some of songs can get repetitive, "How A Reign Comes To An End" is a unique listen. The soulful and sexy sound created by stand-out guitar riffs, smooth bass lines, and crisp beats makes this album stand out among up-and-coming bands.

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