Formed in 2012 by singer Tasha D and guitarist Mick Broome, Smoking Martha united with the help of like-minded Brisbane and Gold Coast musicians that have complemented their energetic electric rock style. Currently Smoking Martha is, Tasha – Vocals, Mick – Guitar, Az – Guitar, Matty– Bass and Jordy– Drums.
Smoking Martha has crafted a truly thrilling recording with their 5-track self-titled EP. The tracks that rock –“Sweet As Honey,” “All Lit Up,” “Fake Promises,” and “Bad Choices” -do it like an earthquake. Tasha D may be working a sparkly skirt but her musical heft is all muscle, jeans and big nasty boots. This is music that is genuine, tight and has so much grit to make cries of “slick” confounding.
Smoking Martha maintains equal fire power on quieter numbers like the stunning “Heavy Heart.” They combine a sexy mixture of rock, alternative and pure soul in a way that will get you grooving no matter where you’re at when you hear it. This is an EP that is good from start to finish because it is filled with songs that have both structure and passion. These tracks come to rock and conquer, and they succeed on every level!
I was impressed, not only by the beaming smile of Tasha D, but by her magnificent voice and boundless energy. And there’s nothing hotter than a woman who fronts a rock band like a pro. So that makes the music immediately enjoyable!
This is a group anyone can easily learn to favor for the long haul. Their music lives and breathes. It’s tough finding bands today that actually play instruments rather than synthesized electronic gadgets. These people can rock out and Tasha D is a true delight as a rock singer. She sits between three fires, reminding of an unusual blend between Beth Hart, PJ Harvey and Gwen Stefani.
This EP has great riffs and hooks; a balanced sound, which leaves plenty of sonic room for the bass and drums both of which are solid and deserve the space. The mix of tempos and arrangements also showcase the tight musicianship.
Who says rock is dead. When you listen to Smoking Martha’s self-titled album, it may appear that you have stepped back into time when rock n’ roll really kicked with a hard edge and did not need an elaborate production. Smoking Martha stick to the basics; powerful vocals, guitar-drive, and a pounding backbeat that may be heard throughout the record. They come at you full force, with a no holding back attitude. They can go from seductive to a roar and back, in one bar – a true pleasure!
The EP was recorded at Airlock Studios, and produced by Powderfinger’s Ian Haug. The first single “Sweet As Honey” has had airplay on rock radio shows in Australia and the USA.
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