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3.5 out of 5 stars

Andy Grammer, The Good Parts © BMG Rights ManagementPop singer-songwriter Andy Grammer drops an enjoyable new single, “Smoke Clears,” in advance of his third studio album, ‘The Good Parts.’ 

Andy Grammer has experienced some success.  Arguably, the pop singer-songwriter hasn’t experienced the success he’s deserved for his albums.  Nonetheless, many artists would kill to have a hit like “Honey, I’m Good.” Grammer returns with his third studio album, The Good Parts, on December 1, 2017.  In advance of The Good Parts, Grammer dropped “Smoke Clears,” “The Good Parts,” “Fresh Eyes,” and “Give Love.”

“Smoke Clears” opens mysteriously, featuring an extremely brief intro before Grammer begins singing.  He serves up a clear, captivating vocal performance throughout the course of the record.  We’d expect no less from the talented pop singer.  He sounds particularly soulful on the pre-chorus, as he sings the line, “We ride the highs and lows.” He gets another soulful turn as he sings the titular line at the end of the chorus.

Following standard, pop-oriented verses, pre-choruses, and chorus sections, the post-chorus ushers in the sleek, modern, electro-pop sounds and sensibility.  During this section, Grammer simply reiterates lines from the chorus: “I will be right here / When the smoke clears.” This showcases the bridge between pop and EDM that’s been going down for years now.  It’s not brand-new – it’s predictable – but ultimately, it’s effective.

Final Thoughts

So, how does “Smoke Clears” stack up for Andy Grammer.  All in all, it’s an enjoyable, pleasant song, but by no means the ‘second coming.’ “That’s about all I’ve got to say about that.”

Andy Grammer • The Good Parts • BMG Rights Management • Release: 12.1.17
Photo Credit: BMG Rights Management

the musical hype

the musical hype (Brent Faulkner) has earned Bachelor's and Master's degrees in music (music education, music theory/composition respectively). A multi-instrumentalist, he plays piano, trombone, and organ among numerous other instruments. He's a certified music educator, composer, and freelance music blogger. Faulkner cites music and writing as two of the most important parts of his life. Notably, he's blessed with a great ear, possessing perfect pitch.

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