Humble Pie – Smokin’ (Analogue Productions)

Few albums capture the ragged spirit of early ‘70s British rock quite like Humble Pie’s ‘Smokin’.’ With Steve Marriott’s unmistakable, soul-drenched vocals leading the charge, this 1972 release became the band’s breakout moment in the U.S. It’s a record drenched in attitude, marked by gritty guitar work and a raucous swagger that still sounds vital decades later. Tracks like ’30 Days in the Hole’ and their soulful rendition of ‘Road Runner’ showcase the band’s mastery of blending blues roots with hard-edged rock, while the grooves are thick enough to make any speaker system sweat. This Analogue Productions reissue does justice to the original analog tapes, unlocking new depths in the band’s interplay and Marriott’s electrifying rasp. For any vinyl enthusiast, this isn’t just a nostalgia trip—it’s an immersive, energetic listen that cements Humble Pie’s place among the era’s most electrifying acts. Whether you’re discovering them for the first time or revisiting a classic, ‘Smokin’’ is a testament to the raw, unfiltered power of rock at its best.