The Smile's "Wall of Eyes": Jazz, Prog, and Cosmic Explorations

The Smile's latest album, "Wall of Eyes," marks a significant evolution for the band, channeling jazz, kosmische, and progressive rock influences into a strangely enchanting appeal. This second release showcases Jonny Greenwood's most exciting and volatile performance since "In Rainbows," pushing the trio into new sonic territories.

Producer Sam Petts-Davies emphasizes the eclecticism of Thom Yorke and Greenwood's compositions, while drummer Tom Skinner navigates complex time signatures. The album contrasts the pandemic solidarity reflected in "Friend of a Friend," which also critiques COVID-era cronyism, with the dramatic narrative of "Bending Hectic," a car-crash ballad.

Greenwood's arrangements shift between warehouse expressionism and folk fusion, complemented by Yorke's ethereal vocals. The opening tracks, "Wall of Eyes" and "Teleharmonic," introduce themes of digital surveillance and precarious love against a backdrop of slow-burn bossa nova and fraught synths.