By Deaglan Howlett | Posted Sunday, October 13, 2019
Smooch is somewhat of a supergroup, hailing from Monmouth County. The five-piece, “groovy beach rock” group consists of members from various local New Jersey bands. Together they create a sound unlike any of their own individual bands, and that sound is quite refreshing. Their first single, “Rudy” caught my attention, and the band was kind enough to answer some questions about their origin and “Rudy.” Make sure you follow Smooch on Spotify to keep up with their releases!
How did Smooch form? When?
We’ve all known each other for quite some time and have collaborated through different projects, but the first time “Smooch” came together was for a recording session in March of 2019.
Who is in Smooch? Who plays what?
Smooch consists of:
Jon Bass - Bass Guitar and vocals
Justin Murray - Guitar
James Eckert - Guitar and vocals
Owen Flanagan - Drums and percussion
Andy Jackle - Drums and percussion
Tell us about your latest single, "Rudy." Where did you record?
The song “Rudy” was recorded at Retromedia Recording Studio in Red Bank, NJ by Adam Vaccarelli (a totally rad dude). Justin Murray wrote the premise of the song while still in high school. It came to its final form after the other members added their parts just before the recording session.
What is Smooch's songwriting process like?
When Smooch writes a song, it often starts with one band member bringing an idea to the table (chord progressions, lyrics, etc.) and then the band will get together and create parts for other instruments. We then jam it out and try to get it as tight as possible.
Plans for more music? EP? Album?
We’ve released 5 individual songs so far and are constantly writing more. As of now, there are no concrete plans for an album or an EP. We are just creating and going with the flow.
Future plans for Smooch? Upcoming shows?
On November 1, 2019 you can catch Smooch at the Red Tank Brewing in Red Bank, NJ. For more show dates and future events, you can follow us on Instagram with the tag @smoochthegroup!