Photo of The Smile by Marc Ducrest
8:00pm | 17105 North Outer 40 Road, Chesterfield, MO | All ages | from $65
The Smile’s name might be mundane, but the British art rock trio itself is cause for excitement. The Smile features Thom Yorke and Jonny Greenwood of Radiohead fame; their debut album, A Light for Attracting Attention, was produced by longtime collaborator Nigel Godrich (also known for his work with Beck and other acclaimed artists). The third member of the trio is London-based jazz percussionist Tom Skinner. With a lineup like this, it’s no surprise that The Smile played at the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland last year.
Whether they like it or not, The Smile will be compared again and again to Radiohead. Still, we can avoid that dismissive label of “side project.” The Smile is a logical progression from the sounds Radiohead explored on their last album, 2016’s A Moon-Shaped Pool. The album features lengthy and complex instrumental passages, accentuated by Yorke’s plaintive voice and abstract, poetic lyrics. The Smile also incorporates a variety of non-rock sounds from electronic, jazz, and classical music. Their debut album even features brass and string accompaniment from the London Contemporary Orchestra.
A Light for Attracting Attention is a progressive work. Many of the tracks blend together or eschew typical pop/rock song structures. It’s hard to choose standouts, but the aggressive and satirical “You Will Never Work in Television Again” might be one; it’s certainly the rockiest Yorke and Greenwood have been since the days of Hail to the Thief. Regardless of how you categorize The Smile, you must admire their ambition and musical talent. And yes, this is required listening for Radiohead fans.
Doors open at 7:00 and the show starts at 8:00. Tickets start at $65. The band will play most of A Light for Attraction Attention, but you can expect some new material as well. | Rob Von Nordheim
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit thefactorystl.com!
