CD Review - Sills and Smith "No Way In, No Way Out"

Sills and Smith are based in Ottawa and class themselves as folk/rock. 

Members are Jeremy Sills, Frank Smith and Jonathan Edwards. Frank Smith is the main vocalist and lyricist of the band. Jeremy Sills and Jonathan Edwards share electric and acoustic guitar duties, backing vocals with drums and bass played by Jonathan. 

The band have released two albums: "Uncertain Vista" (2011) and "No Way In, No Way Out" (2012). Their new album is set for release in late Spring 2013. 



“No Way In, No Way Out” is a very nicely produced album that shows a good progression in terms of production from their previous CD, 2011’s “Uncertain Vista”. Their style varies from Midwest Indie Rock to 90’s 4AD and even has elements of folk, early goth and interesting alternative experimentation at times. 

The drum and guitar sounds work really well together and the plaintive vocals sit well in the mix. Vocal influences seem to range from Nick Cave/Interpol/Michael Stipe to Lloyd Cole and The Red House Painters. There is a strong sense of empathy in many of the vocals. 

If you like the styles of music described above, you will be likely to appreciate the song writing which is generally well thought out and full of diversity and innovation, just where it is least expected.
Arrangements are simple and not over busy and this helps bring out the songs to strongly showcase the band’s potential. 

Personally, three of my favourite tracks from the album would be “Clouds”, “Radiance” and “Pain”. 

“Clouds” seems to have a Red House Painters influence infused into it. Nice chiming chorus guitars and a folk influence from the use of a pedal steel guitar. 

“Radiance” is very emotive lyrical imagery and a lovely build up to the song. It has a good musical balance that has that happy/sad feel that could go either way. 

“Pain” is one of the most interesting tracks. It has a dynamic that usurps listener expectation in the light of previous tracks and has an experimental edge that borders on Bauhaus/early goth. For me it is one of the most innovative tracks on the album. 

Another stand out track would be “Would it all be Different” which has a beautiful, sad, unrequited feel where “luck is measured in a thimble.” It is a unique track full of layers and dimensions and a courageous track which culminates in an ending that veers towards a celebration of Pink Floyd. 

The album is available from the many links included on their Reverbnation site. If you like good quality, alternative music from independent bands not influenced by corporate greed then this is a recommended release. 

I look forward to the new album later this year and wish Sills and Smith all success from the DGR Team.



Sills and Smith Links –

Sills and Smith at Reverbnation
Sills and Smith at Facebook