Porchlight Smoker
Album: Water Into Sand
Label: Dead Reckoning/At The Helm Records
Tracks: 11
Website: http://www.porchlightsmoker.com

Porchlight Smoker are a Sussex-based Americana/Roots band. Water into Sand is their third album, following on from the success of their first two albums, which were enthusiastically received.

All four band members contribute to the songwriting and each bring a different flavour to the overall sound - a blend of bluegrass/country/roots.

The album kicks off with the upbeat Mary, Mary with all the guys showing their skills on their respective instruments.

Noticeable is how well the song is mixed with harmonica, guitars, and banjo all gelling in harmony. This track sets the standard for the entire album.

The recording and mixing is exemplary. Each of the instruments is allowed to sparkle and shine.

Man in a Boat, A Day in Mid July, US75 - the standard is kept very high, whether upbeat or slowed down.

The band, formed in 2008, are Fred Gregory (mandolin, guitars, vocals), Scott Smith (lap-steel, guitars, banjo, harmonica, clarinet, vocals), Steve Bell (banjo, mandolin, guitars, vocals) and Scott Warman (double-bass, vocals).

The band show their skills on the excellent Cleaner's Rag but it is difficult to pick a stand-out track as every track is a gem.

The toe-tapping I Don't Mind brings this wonderful album to an apt conclusion.

The guys should be very proud of this effort as it is a delightful album which I heartily recommend.

John Knighton