The Smilin' Iguanas feature three Northern California songwriters, each with unique commentaries on life and the relationships that make it interesting. Benson, Knowlton and Larkin’s wide-ranging songs are delivered with wry humor, strong vocals, and spirited instrumental interplay by their five-piece ensemble.
Growing up under the influence of roots rock, the folk music boom, West Coast country, the San Francisco 60’s rock scene, and the giants of jazz, the Smilin’ Iguanas have collectively absorbed a broad swath of the American Soundscape.
After playing the SF club circuit, Doug Benson toured as lead vocalist with the country band California Zephyr. Gary Knowlton has recorded with Tom Waits and the C-Side Experimental Music Ensemble, featured in Jim Jarmusch’s film Coffee and Cigarettes. Paul Larkin and Phil Marshall perform with the ten-piece Motown band Blue Moon. Drummer Rick Hill honed his chops in the studios of LA from his teen years. The guys have been playing together in various combinations for decades, and their intuitive synergy produces performances filled with great feeling and fun.
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