John Smyths – Now I’m Wiser (2025)
While he might have only started releasing music on digital platforms under the moniker John Smyths, Johannes Smits has been sharing singles for years – so he’s not all that much of a newbie on the scene. Raised on a diet of Kiss, Van Halen, Iron Maiden and AC/DC, Smyths found a base in the old-school rock scene; however, he’s not afraid to saunter across different genres and found himself wading through country music with Hank Williams, Kenny Rogers and Waylon Jennings. Today, we are introduced to John Smyths with his aptly named debut, ‘Now I’m Wiser’. Join us on this journey, won’t you?
Indulging in vintage country music, John Smyths immediately had me considering the country music heavy-hitters like Kenny Rogers, so prepare yourself for the toe-tapping, twang-tinged, barn dance-esque tune. For me, however, as much as it is a Nashville-laced single, an eccentricity or obscurity lingers in ‘Now I’m Wiser’. It’s not the soaring guitars or piano, nor the blues-flavoured banjo; rather, it exists in Smyths’ rich vocals.
Sophisticated and warm, his voice captures the heart of country music, showcasing maturity as an artist. Then again, a flutter of vulnerability and uneasiness exists in the tone, bringing a sense of uncertainty and innocence to the track. A slight hint of an accent can be detected, but otherwise, the Nashville twang is as US country as can be. It might be that I know Smyths has Dutch heritage, so listen and decide if you hear this interesting inflexion as well.
Sincere, warm, sentimental and brimming with honey-soaked vocals, ‘Now I’m Wiser’ is the song you expect to hear at an open mic night or one of the smaller live venues. It’s calming, chilled-out, and gentle, offering a message of new beginnings in a fun package. I am eager to hear more from Smyths and consider him one to watch in 2025.
Find out more about John Smyths on his Facebook and Spotify.
This artist was sent to us by Obsidian PR.
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What a great and gentle review. Many thanks from John Smyths!!!