Uncovering the Sonic Gems: A Journey Through the Evolving Soundscape of The Smile

Every Monday, 88Nine music director Erin Wolf shares a sonic gem she found using her nearly 20 years of new-music exploration experience. You can hear all her discoveries at 2 p.m. every Sunday on What's All This: Adventures in New Music.

Dive into the Captivating Rhythms and Progressive Influences of The Smile's Latest Release

The Smile's Propulsive New Single "Zero Sum"

The Smile, the English rock trio rooted in the iconic Radiohead sound, has recently unveiled their newest single "Zero Sum," a track that has been a staple in their live performances for some time. This propulsive and dynamic offering showcases the band's ability to seamlessly blend their signature guitar-driven rock with more progressive influences, creating a captivating and immersive listening experience.The track's skittering guitars and intricate rhythmic patterns weave a tapestry of sound that immediately grabs the listener's attention. Thom Yorke, Jonny Greenwood, and Tom Skinner's collaborative efforts have resulted in a track that is both musically sophisticated and emotionally resonant. The Smile's ability to push the boundaries of their rock 'n' roll foundation while maintaining a strong sense of identity is truly impressive.

The Smile's Evolving Discography: From "Wall of Eyes" to "Cutouts"

The Smile's momentum continues to build, both musically and physically, as they prepare to release their third album, "Cutouts," on October 4th. This highly anticipated release follows the January 2024 debut of their acclaimed album "Wall of Eyes," which has been widely praised for its depth and complexity.The productive recording sessions for "Wall of Eyes" have resulted in an overflow of songs, many of which will now find a home on "Cutouts." Fans are already drawing comparisons between this new album and the band's previous work, likening it to the relationship between "Amnesiac" and "Kid A" in the Radiohead discography.

Exploring the Sonic Gems in The Smile's Playlist

In addition to the captivating new single "Zero Sum," the playlist curated by Erin Wolf for this episode of "What's All This: Adventures in New Music" showcases a diverse array of musical gems. From the atmospheric and introspective sounds of The Jesus and Mary Chain's "Pop Seeds" to the infectious energy of Future Islands' "Glimpse," this playlist offers a tantalizing glimpse into the ever-evolving world of new music.Other standout tracks include the dreamy and ethereal "Midnight Shining" by Lykke Li, the nostalgic and melancholic "Trains In the Night" by The Clientele, and the haunting and introspective "Broom of Wind" by Mount Eerie. Each of these selections demonstrates the breadth and depth of the new music landscape, inviting listeners to embark on a sonic journey of discovery.

The Enduring Appeal of The Smile's Innovative Sound

The Smile's ability to seamlessly blend their Radiohead-inspired roots with more progressive and experimental elements has earned them a dedicated following among music enthusiasts. Their willingness to push the boundaries of traditional rock music and explore new sonic territories has resulted in a sound that is both familiar and refreshingly unique.As the band continues to evolve and expand their creative horizons, their impact on the music industry is likely to grow. The anticipation surrounding the release of "Cutouts" is a testament to the band's ability to captivate and inspire their audience, and their continued success is a testament to the enduring power of innovative and boundary-pushing music.Whether you're a long-time fan of The Smile or a newcomer to their sound, this episode of "What's All This: Adventures in New Music" offers a tantalizing glimpse into the band's ever-evolving musical journey. Tune in to 88Nine at 2 p.m. every Sunday to discover more sonic gems and explore the ever-expanding world of new music.