Album Notes

"We welcome with open arms, a kinder, gentler Denny Smith this time around. We hear roots poppers like The Jayhawks and even some Paul Westerberg solo/latter period Replacements throughout the record. The record is a first-rate example of a shimmering blend of country, folk, and bar band rock-leaning songs. Listening to these guys make music is a beautiful American experience falling somewhere between drinking a cold Coke on a hot day and driving through the Rocky Mountains at sunset. Perhaps it's in the clarity of Denny's melodies and their accompanying ghostly harmonies, or maybe it's in Patrick's rock licks. Well done lads! Can't say enough about this one! GREAT!!!!"

Ray Gianchetti
Kool Kat Musik

"Denny Smith (formerly of Former) is back with a new band and new sound called The Great Affairs. Joining him are Patrick Miller on the guitars, Matt Andersen on the bass, and Tim Good on the drums. This one marks a departure for Smith, who cut his teeth with the sadly underrated modern rock outfit Former, whose 2008 CD "...And Nothing But The Truth" was a thrilling ride down the melodic rock roller coaster.
The Great Affairs play more in the neighborhood of Tom Petty, Wilco, and The Jayhawks - perhaps influenced in part from Smith's relocation to Nashville. The sound is earnest and organic, pleasant and mellow - not unlike the new one from Black Crowes. Smith retains the wit in his lyrics, which remind me of the subtle lyrical genius of Paul Westerburg at times, and his vocals are just as nicely suited with alt-country as they were with his more commercialized big rock sound.
Highlights include the quietly infectious "Dodge", the Southern rock flavored "Dear John", and the sparkling "Isn't She Gold". "The Great Affairs" takes a few spins to settle in, but once you get into bed with it you won't regret it."

Bill's Music Forum

"The 4 guys here are playing loose and having a good, solid time making music from the gut and letting the sparks fly. That it comes off sounding so effortless is testimony to the talents of the participants. Fans of The Jayhawks, The V-Roys and Limbeck should dive right in. The sound is one of the gentle roots groove of a road-tested and worn Telecaster, a glorious wash of slide guitar and snapping snare patterns, the warmth of a perfect bass line and the earnest declarations of a band getting ready to hit the highway. Very Highly Recommended!"

Bruce Bodeen
Not Lame Recordings