Artist: Space Apaches

Production: Record Label: Artists International Inc.; All songs written by Andrew Reed, except ‘I Am the Six O’Clock New’ by Larry Norman; ‘Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Condition Was In)’ by Mickey Newbury; and ‘Ghost Riders in the Sky’ by Stan Jones; Produced by Andrew Reed; Recorded at Sedgwick Studios, Asheville, NC; Engineered by Jim Georgeson, chief engineer and Jason Pitroff, 2nd engineer; Mixed by Jim Georgeson; Mastered by Stephen V. Smith at SoundSmiths

Honoring the past and embracing the experiences that have shaped your views and personality can be both a daunting and sentimental process. Some occurrences make you feel empty as you struggle to meet expectations, while other encounters encourage you to carry out the dreams that leave you feeling fulfilled and content. That gripping mix of learning from your battles while also appreciating the opportunities that are offered to you is intriguingly highlighted in the distinct vocals and instrumentation of the upcoming rock and country-rock-inspired album ‘Smokin’ Voyages,’ which is set to be released by on October 9 by Space Apaches.

The rock-n-roll band has crafted a unique and distinct list of original and cover songs for ‘Smokin’ Voyages’ that takes an authentic approach to exploring how people’s knowledge and backgrounds have both positively and negatively influenced them. Beginning with the 32-second initial piece ‘Entry,’ which features an intense electronic instrumental guitar, the record then effortlessly flows into the dynamic ‘Sunrise.’ Also kicking off with a vibrant electronic guitar introduction that’s infused with an alluring country vibe, the song interestingly morphs into its signature southern rock lyrics. Backed by the continued intense guitar emphasis, the band notes that it’s their time to shine because they’re embarking on a new sunrise. The melody-driven track promises to offer a captivating live performance that’s sure to amp up the crowd with its feel good and inspirational lyrics and gritty honky-tonk instruments.

‘Smokin’ Voyages’ then seamlessly flows into the bluesy guitar and drums introduction of its third entry, ‘In My Mind,’ before enthrallingly giving way to a hard rock vibe that’s reminiscent of similar bands from the 1980s. Space Apaches compelling sing about leaving their thoughts and cares behind, as they strive to go back to a time during which they felt fine. They want to free themselves from their feelings of despair as they try to recapture their feelings of hope, dreams and destiny, which will help them improve their lives.

The rock band then offers one of the best tracks on their upcoming album, the Tom Petty-inspired ‘Empty,’ which starts with a slower guitar and drum introduction that distinctly encompasses a true country vibe. The group then begins singing about feeling empty and trying to break free of the endless expectations that are placed on them. They also heartbreakingly note how they wish they can easily reunite with the person they long to be with, as they’re tired of running from their troubles forever, and going on a downward slide to nowhere.

‘Entry’ organically gives way to ‘Desert Life,’ the next rock-infused and gritty track on ‘Smokin’ Voyages.’ The enticing entry chronicles how distancing yourself from meaningful interactions with other people can either free your mind and treat you right, or turn your soul to dust and can leave you behind.

Space Apaches then pays homage to the rock and country genres with a cover of the Larry Norman song, ‘I Am the Six O’Clock News.’ The band considerably changes its sound by infusing a gritty rock style in its melodies that resonate with listeners’ emotions. With intriguing vocals and guitars that are reminiscent of INXS and feature a frantic energy, the track ponders how much society should fit into the media’s perception of what culture should be like.

After their intense declaration that the news isn’t always politically correct during ‘I Am the Six O’Clock News,’ the group effortlessly transitions into ‘Breakin’ the Ice.’ Through its prevalent and riveting keys and rock guitar, it serves as a creatively psychedelic and uplifting instrumental song that allows listeners to wind down.

Space Apaches then captivatingly delve into the equally psychedelic and guitar-driven ‘Smile.’ The song encourages people to put on a smile that never ends for the cameras and the public, in an effort to prove their happiness. The track intriguingly emphasizes society’s continued need to always try to smile in order to mask people’s pain, and to not publicly discuss their unease.

‘Smokin’ Voyages’ then delves into another cover with the group’s take on Kenny Rogers and the First Edition’s ‘Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Condition Was In).’ Through its captivating guitars, Space Apaches infuse an intriguing psychedelic vibe into recounting the experience of waking up in the morning with sunlight finally shining in on their lives. They’re watching themselves crawl out of a dark emotional hole, and when they finally have a chance at freedom, they put their foot on the gas as they try to escape their bad situation.

The difficult journey of of continuing to leave your troubles behind is again grippingly chronicled in the record’s next song, ‘I’m on My Way to Feeling Fine.’ Powered by an upbeat guitar introduction, the country-rock band sings about continuing on their path to becoming fine. While the group relatably sings that they’ve worked hard and finally deserve to achieve a better life, they still have to continue fighting to achieve their goals.

‘Smokin’ Voyages’ then intriguingly moves into a bluesy power rock ballad with ‘A Song for the Rest of My Life.’ Taking cues from such distinct rock groups as Aerosmith and The Eagles, Space Apaches stunningly mixes impassioned vocals with a stunning electronic guitar introduction. The track inspirationally encourages listeners to find the thing that truly pushes them, and don’t be influenced by life’s complications.

The country-rock group then offers another one of its most noteworthy entries on their upcoming record, titled ‘Love Should Come Easy.’ The song, which takes cues from the honky tonk style of the 1970s and ’80s, powerfully notes that love shouldn’t be hard to find. The band’s upbeat bass and guitars will surely leave listeners with a desire to dance.

‘Maybe’ is the next enthralling track on ‘Smokin’ Voyages,’ as it uniquely begins with a classical key introduction. The instrumentation then gives way to lyrics that relatably chronicle how some people are maybe too tired of trying to perfectly fit into society. The song’s overall meaningful message also ponders how some people also maybe don’t care enough to conform to society’s expectations, as they may be too lost beyond repair.

Space Apaches end their epic country-rock album with the captivating entry, ‘Ghost Riders in the Sky.’ The gothic rendition of the noteworthy country song features a classical and intense key introduction that offers an intimidating look and feel into how those who are perceived to be different descend on the masses. While they aren’t easily accepted by society, they’re noteworthy in the sense that they’re unafraid to go after they want.

Honoring the experiences that have shaped your life can be both an intimidating and nostalgic process. Some occurrences make you feel empty as you struggle to meet society’s expectations, while other encounters encourage you to carry out the goals that leave you feeling accomplished. The importance of learning from your battles, while also appreciating the opportunities that are offered to you, is intriguingly highlighted in such noteworthy songs as ‘Empty’ and ‘Love Should Come Easy’ on Space Apaches’ rock and country-rock-inspired album, ‘Smokin’ Voyages.’

For more information on Space Apaches, visit the country-rock band’s official website, as well as its YouTube and SoundCloud channels, and its Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages. Watch the group’s music video for ‘Smile,’ and listen to ‘Breakin’ the Ice’ and ‘A Song for the Rest of My Life,’ below.

Written by: Karen Benardello