In the modern world, we have become all too accustomed to listening to music that has been produced to within an inch of its life, songs that have been pieced together from numerous takes and additional sonic add-ons. It might sound impressive, in that shiny sort of way that appeals to musical magpies, but does it sound honest and authentic enough for the more discerning musical aficionado? Probably not.
If you are after the real deal, look no further than this new six-tracker from Noah Smith. Cavaliers Into Cadillacs is the sound of a live band in the studio, capturing the same energy, edge, feel, and authenticity as they would if they were on stage entertaining the masses. It ain’t a live album, but it’s not far off.
Noah Smith seems to flit through any genres – country, rock, folk, Americana – never stopping long enough to get tied down in any one in particular, always taking the best of what each has to offer before moving on.
“Don’t Break My Fall” is an anthemic slice of country rock, one that swaps musical weight for gravitas, pace for poise, and all the bigger for doing so. Conversely, “Secondhand Heartbreak” shows that he is just as au fait with the deft, delicate, and understated as he is with the big rock moments, such as “Right Here With You,” which follows.
And by the time we get to the album’s swansong, “Diamonds in the Rough”, and its slow-burning builds, its ebbs and flows between restraint and crescendo, you will be booking tickets for the nearest show. After all, if this is the sound of him and the band on record, imagine what an experience Noah Smith is going to be live!
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