Not a Demo Anymore
Artist Charlie Smith released his debut album, Not a Demo Anymore, on November 18, 2022. This release follows singles “Have it All,” One Day Some Day,” and “Reap What You Sow,” all included on the album. The Hampshire based singer-songwriter prides himself on his raw style and focus on storytelling. From start to finish, Not a Demo Anymore plays out like a journal. Almost every track features only Smith’s vocals and acoustic guitar, building intimacy between him and the listener. Smith draws heavy influence from 1990’s grunge and indie. He has strong control of his acoustic guitar and is incredibly capable at creating different textures with one instrument. Vocally, Smith possesses a dark and husky vocal tone, deepening the overall color of the album. Most of the tracks are made with similar grunge elements, but a select three showcase other sides of Smith’s skills. They are the “Intro Track,” “Point of View,” and “Our Promise to You.”
Not a Demo Anymore album art | via Charlie Smith
“Intro Track” begins with a buzzing hum before clear, acoustic notes take center stage. The juxtaposition of the frenetic buzz and the tolling guitar chords are almost like an alarm clock urging Smith out of a reluctant rest. The track builds into swirling feedback as it ends, as if he is stepping into the sun and settling in front of the mic. The track is practically foley, like a soundtrack in a movie. As the album moves forward, the next four tracks (“As You Were,” “Cat Food,” “I Own a Tree,” and “Have it All”) are defined by that grungy acoustic sound. Finally, Smith veers towards early 2000’s pop-punk and trades the acoustic guitar for electric in “Point of View.” This is the longest and most emotionally raw track on the album. Lyrically, Smith languishes over guilt and shame, while the layered guitar melody pairs smoothly with slight reverb on the vocals. “Point of View” provides a breath of fresh air at the halfway point before Smith returns to his tried and true acoustic style. Two tracks separate “Point of View” and “Our Promise to You,” (“Eat it Up” and “One Day Some Day”), but “Our Promise to You” represents a pivotal moment in the album. The melody from the acoustic guitar feels open and honest as the lyrics give tentative forgiveness. The track is bright, and the lyrics are cheeky, as if Smith has started to shed the emotional weight from “Point of View.” As the track changes, Smith changes the melody, and the guitar line floats by as if in a dream. It’s beautiful and peaceful.
The final two tracks (“Take from Thieves” and “Reap What You Sow”) bring back the grunge themes, and Not a Demo Anymore draws to a close. Charlie Smith is a talented artist and songwriter. His focus on staying honest and real produced something deeply personal and real. Hopefully as he continues to develop his artistry, we will get to see more facets of his imagination and ability. Be sure to keep an eye on Charlie Smith, and definitely take the time to see him perform.
