Smoother

Chasing the Dragon

(EMI Music Canada)

The press release for Smoother cites the Canadian band’s influences as Beck, Blink 182, Daft Punk and Weezer - and, in fact, the sounds of all these artists can be heard on Smoother’s “Chasing the Dragon.” The CD is an odd combination of so many different musical sounds that it’s even accessible to people who are die-hard fans of specific bands.

“Rock Her Like a Lion,” the fourth track, is reminiscent of Blink 182 - a punky love song with catchy lyrics. Other songs on the album aren’t as punky, like the ballad “Comfortable.”

Smoother was able to produce a unique sound on many of these tracks - but all of them sound like a band you’ve heard before. But luckily for Smoother, it doesn’t matter.

“French Cigarettes,” the seventh track, is a punky number a little like “Rock Her Like a Lion,” but it’s amusing to listen to with its Beach Boys allusion. Other tracks filling Smoother’s CD are worth a listen, too, like “Happy If It Kills Me” and “East Side.”

One of the best tracks on the album is “Les.” It’s a catchy number with vocals that scream “radio air play.” Another great tune on the CD is the last one, “White Chevy.” It has a nice beat to it, but the song’s infectious lyrics and tropical sound will make anyone listening to “Chasing the Dragon” love “White Chevy” more than any other track.

Smoother has a well-rounded and shockingly good sound, especially for a band you’ve probably never heard of. Its CD is full of rock and punk music, but there is an edge to this band that gives it an advantage over the plethora of groups out there.

It’s called talent.