There is a certain craftsmanship to song-writing, and mastering the ability to convey a story as well as emotion is always a fine balance. Melbourne artist Ben Smith has been treading this line for years.
After having lived and travelled the streets of London in his early 20’s, absorbing the surroundings then returning to Melbourne, he’s subsequently translated those experiences into songs that speak about life, love, good times and bad. A concoction of tunes that blend acoustic guitar based pop-rock with a more earthy and soulful blues-roots feel.
Independent Melbourne label Dust Devil Records signed Ben in 2006 and having released the “Whiskey Sunset” EP (2006, Dust Devil Music) as well as his debut album “Sometimes Always Never” (2007, Dust Devil Music), both works showcase an artist who clearly knows his trade as a singer-songwriter.
Ben Smith has been steadily building a loyal fan base in his hometown, after numerous well-received headline performances and most recently having opened for Dallas Frasca & Her Gentleman and Zoophyte. Expanding upon his Victorian home turf, numerous trips inter-state have also yielded responsive punter favour and as the momentum grows, so does the audience numbers.
Ben’s versatility as an artist stretches into his live shows, performing onstage in both solo and band mode. Bass guitarist Nick Ohlson has come on board, utilising his previous stints with various roots acts to instil a more rhythmic vibe to the material. Solid-as-a-rock drummer Tim O’Connor maintains his long-standing position as Ben’s skinsman, and thus rounds out the trio band format.
Now the time has come for the next instalment on the musical journey for Ben Smith. The cogs have begun turning and the second as-yet untitled album is due for release very soon. It promises to be an edgier and more energetic step up from Ben’s debut. In the meantime he continues to hone his craft by playing to live audiences around Melbourne, so be sure to check out Ben Smith in a venue near you.
Hey there, nice to read the review in Beat about the Dallas Frasca album launch, sounds like the night was a treat, well done again!! Be in touch re: next years events, lotsalove and peace :):):) jess
Hundred Fire Management
presents a very special Friday Night Fire on Grand Final eve, Friday September
25, at Edinburgh Castle. On a weekend usually associated
with the big men of sport, Friday Night Fire will feature three of the best
female acts in Melbourne.
Kick this huge weekend off with Cash Savage and the Last Drinks, Suzannah Espie
and Krista Polvere. Doors at 9pm.
The
next Friday Night Fire takes place tomorrow night (Friday July 31) at Edinburgh Castle!
This
month features Major Chord, Lady Grey and Luke Sinclair of The Idle Hoes in a
special solo performance. Doors at 9pm, would be great to see you there.
Hey there, you have some amazing music streaming up on your page, really delivering a strong, catchy and unique sound. Just dropping by to inform you that we have a few spots available for our upcoming promotional trial.
You can visit www.bmvpromotion.com to see what we have to offer - If you join soon, we will give Two Free Weeks of hard promotional services at the end of your trial!!
Our email system has been down, but hit us back if you are interested, as well send your email address so we can communicate better!!
Thanks alot, keep up the great work!! BMV Promotion
Friday
Night Fire continues at Edinburgh Castle this Friday June 26 with Tobias Cummings and new band
Alaska Coats, Pony Face, and Voodoo Economic. Also Dan Lethbridge rounds out
his residency at Wesley Anne this Thursday June 25 with D Rogers in support.
Two great nights of local Melbourne
music, proudly presented by Hundred Fire Management. We hope to see you there!
Dan Lethbridge continues his June residency at Wesley Anne this Thursday with support
from one Tim Cannon. Come warm yourself by the open fire, have a drink
and relax with some fine music.