The Smile Unveils New Track ‘Don’t Get Me Started’: A Deeper Dive into Their Evolving Sound
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The Smile, the innovative English rock band featuring Radiohead’s Thom Yorke and Jonny Greenwood, alongside drummer Tom Skinner, has just released their latest track, “Don’t Get Me Started.” The new single comes with a visually captivating music video directed by the renowned audiovisual artist Weirdcore, known for his work with Aphex Twin and Charli XCX. This collaboration continues to push the boundaries of the band’s artistic expression, offering fans a multi-sensory experience.
Following their limited edition double A-side 12-inch single release last Friday, “Don’t Get Me Started” made its debut during The Smile’s UK tour in March, supporting their sophomore album, “Wall Of Eyes,” which dropped in January 2024. The Smile, formed during the COVID-19 lockdowns, first surprised audiences with a performance streamed by the Glastonbury Festival in May 2021. Their early work includes six singles and a series of live performances in London, setting the stage for their critically acclaimed debut album, “A Light for Attracting Attention,” produced by Nigel Godrich, Radiohead’s longtime collaborator.
Touring extensively through Europe and North America in 2022 and 2023, The Smile released two live EPs, showcasing their dynamic live performances and musical versatility. Their second album, “Wall of Eyes,” produced by Sam Petts-Davies, highlights the band’s evolution and their embrace of diverse musical influences. Critics have noted the incorporation of post-punk, proto-punk, and math rock elements, with specific tracks like “Just Eyes and Mouth” featuring Afrobeat influences and others drawing from 1960s electronic music.
The Smile’s sound, while reminiscent of Radiohead’s signature “warped” melodies and complex time signatures, is described as both more skeletal and intricate. Critics have highlighted the band’s progressive rock influences and motorik psychedelia, with Pitchfork noting the “stranger and wilder” nature of their music compared to Radiohead. The band’s ability to loosen up and explore new sonic territories is evident in the aggressive basslines and dynamic drumming that define their recent work. As The Smile continues to innovate and captivate, “Don’t Get Me Started” stands as a testament to their ongoing musical journey and artistic growth.
