It’s Been A Long Day

It's hard to believe the Smoking Popes we've come to know and love started out with this style of poorly performed, amateurish punk rock. But always on display was the heart on their sleeve emotion that would make their music unforgettable. The "Smoking Popes 1991-1998" album released on Double Zero Records a decade ago contained many, but not all of these songs, instead making room for the full track listing of the Popes' first full length album "Get Fired". So having the complete collection of early Pope's singles is a real treat. Of course we get early versions of live favorites: "Brand New Hairstyle", "Stars", "Writing A Letter" and "Waiting Around" that show how much their style has evolved, but there are a few forgotten gems as well. The quirky lyrics of "Sandra", "No Time For Your Lies" and "Run Away" ring in your ears long after the last chord fades away. While the heartfelt emotion of "Down The Street", "Long Day" and "First Time"(recently re-recorded for "Stay Down") reminds the listener of where the band is headed. In all honesty the best tracks on the album are "Pasted" and "Do Something" which came after the band had crossed over to their signature sound and Josh opted to croon instead of whine/scream his vocals. Overall this is a piece of history for completists, but if you want to hear what the band is all about buy "Born To Quit", "Destination Failure" or "Stay Down" for a truly enjoyable listening experience.