Smith & Burrows – Only Smith & Burrows Is Good Enough

Playful and euphoric, Smith and Burrows’ new album Only Smith & Burrows Is Good Enough showcases the artists’ brilliance as writers of both music and lyrics. It’s their second collaborative project since Funny Looking Angels (2011), and was recorded in Nashville in six weeks with multi-Grammy-winning producer Jacquire King.  

The record is simpatico, euphonious and lively, contrasting in mood with its more sombre predecessor, though at times the lyrics touch on graver topics like lost love. Opening track All the Best Moves exhibits a classic rock vibe, with fast-paced acoustic guitar and Tom Smith as lead singer echoing a Beatles aura. It is followed by a fun and dreamy Buccaneer Rum Jum, with strong piano, muffled brass and subtle Calypso style. 

High-speed, whimsical Spaghetti, written and sung by Smith, is original, humorous and ironic, yet serious, with great lyrics. Softly building the dynamic, Old TV Shows is nostalgic and romantic with mellow acoustic, genial keyboard and 70s sound. Tom Smith describes the sweet, heartfelt Parliament Hill as his “favourite song on the album”; it incorporates lovely piano that builds to winsome vocals, performed by both artists. 

Bottle Tops is carefree and pop/hip-hop-inspired, with a touch of Changestwobowie, combining folk electronica with early-80s electro. I Want You Back in My Life is a sentimental rock ditty with Springsteen-esque piano chords and a classic sound; it blends powerful piano licks, muted guitar and percussion with strong melodious vocals.

The pensive Aimee Move On opens gently with its misty chorus, developing into a potent, lyrical song. The track is eclectic, with a bit of Bowie meets Motown, a lighthearted 60s-sounding chorus, and a contemporary hip-hop/rock finale. A Britpunk flavour and terrific vocals characterise the energetic Too Late, and last, but not least, the unique and equally vocally impressive Straight Up Like a Mohican has an effervescent pop vibe and a buoyant tempo.

Tom Smith is famous as the lead singer in Birmingham band Editors, and Andy Burrows has had a successful solo career, well known as part of Razorlight and We Are Scientists. Their winning chemistry on Only Smith & Burrows Is Good Enough makes for a highly enjoyable, beautifully compiled album. 

Catherine Sedgwick

Only Smith & Burrows Is Good Enough is released on 19^th February 2021. For further information or to order the album visit Smith & Burrows’s website here.

Watch the video for the single Parliament Hill here: