Dallas folk pop rockers play modern Americana and sing damn good sad songs.
After seeing Pigeons at Pianos, I was in a mellow sedate mood—a perfect state to take in the folky pop sounds of Smile Smile. Bowery Electric has fantastic acoustics and caters to mellow type rock.
Smile Smile are Ryan Hamilton and Jencey Hirunrusme, ex-lovers. It’s amazing they can still tour and make music together—especially when most of Hamilton’s songs are about their relationship.
Their sound is distinctive in that the songs are folky—though with the addition of a piano and Hirunrusme sharing vocals, the songs become something unique—more warm and welcoming.
The band played a few sing-along type songs that sounded tight, though the drums were a bit loud and at times and did not fit the folk sound.
The best song was “You’re In My Way,” a Neil Young sounding number about someone discovering their lover’s infidelities. After the song Hirunrusme remarked “that song still bugs me.”
Hamilton conceded they were once engaged and after wiping his eyes, Hamilton told the crowed that he had found out Hirunrusme was cheating on him—which she sheepishly still denied.
Regardless of the tension, Smile Smile played a heartfelt set.
Photos by Joe Weber
