Kings of Leon’s bassist Jared Followill has always been known as the daredevil of the group. That’s why it was no surprise to know that he formed a band of his own with Mona’s lead singer Nick Brown, called Smoke & Jackal.
Smoke & Jackal formed in the beginning of 2012 and by November, they would already have their first EP.
The album is called “EP No. 1” — a very original name, I know. This album is short but in those few minutes, Followill and Brown sure did pour their little hearts out.
“EP No.1” is definitely something different. It’s unique and to be quite honest it’s quite addicting.
The album begins with “Fall Around.” This song basically starts the album on a high note. It starts off slow but then the chorus comes creeping along and one can’t help but to start singing and smile because the song is just that good.
Then directly following “Fall Around” is the first single of Smoke & Jackal’s album called “No Tell.” This song is about a girl who fell in love with the wrong guy and how she could do better considering that her parents won’t approve. I like the song. It’s a good song.
“Roadside” and “You’re Lost” are a few of the songs that do a very good job highlighting a certain instrument. At a certain time the listener can hear the bass line very clearly but then there’s a sudden switch and we hear the drums or then we hear a soft and sweet piano tune. It changes at different times but that’s what makes this album so unique.
The best song of the album is “OK, OK.” This song is probably the song of the album that will get stuck in your head and you will catch yourself just saying the phrase “OK, OK” at random times. The vocals in this song are great. They blend in with the song quite well. Overall, it is the best track of the album.
Smoke & Jackal’s “EP No. 1” is a fantastic album. It has great songs and it is definitely worth checking out.
The album is now on sale on iTunes for $5.99.
By: Yesenia Cruz