ABQ – Smoke (2020)
Despite their small discography, the Irish indie-rock foursome has found themselves receiving critical acclaim from international publications like Clash Magazine, Indie Central Music, XS Noize and Its All Indie. Described as classic, anthemic, passionate and memorable, it’s no surprise that ABQ has been gaining this much attention. Working with renowned producers Alex Davies (Elliot Minor), Ben Mark (Take That) and Mats Valentin (Carpark North), to name a few, ABQ produces a sound that is both unique and intriguing. The latest addition to their repertoire is ‘Smoke’.
A follow-up to their well-received third single ‘Neon’ (check out our review here), ‘Smoke’ retains the wistful post-punk ambience but integrates a modern alternative rock stance. Produced by Paul Whalley (Wretch 32) at London’s Tileyard Studios, ‘Smoke’ is impressive, impactful and anthemic.
Lyrically, ‘Smoke’ touches on issues of self-worth, self-growth and the significance of simple relationships. In fact, ABQ describes the track as “a song about discovering self-worth from investing in friends and family rather than material constructs”. The lyrical poignancy is clear from the start, but it is the instrumentation that enhances this momentous concept. The harmonic fusion of synths, guitars and Paul Shevlin’s unmistakable vocals create a river of flowing music that rises and ebbs pulling you along in an emotional swirl.
I once compared ABQ to All American Rejects with Shevlin’s Tyler Ritter-esque vocals being quite addictive. I maintain this comparison but believe this Irish foursome are far more sophisticated in ‘Smoke’ with a mature and impassioned sound. I once said ABQ could be a rival to All American Rejects; I now think that there is no contest and ABQ is coming out on top.
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