Smoke (American band)
| Industry | Music |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1990s |
| Defunct | 1999 |
| Headquarters | Atlanta, Georgia , United States |
| Products | Music albums, singles |
Smoke was a musical ensemble originating from the Cabbagetown district in Atlanta, Georgia. The band ceased activities in 1999 after the passing of its lead vocalist and songwriter, Benjamin. His life and work were documented in the 2000 film Benjamin Smoke, directed by Peter Sillen and Jem Cohen.
History
The band emerged as the Opal Foxx Quartet was dissolving, initially composed of Benjamin on vocals, Bill Taft handling cornet and banjo, Brian Halloran playing cello, and Todd Butler on guitar. Subsequently, Coleman Lewis joined as a guitarist, with Tim Campion on drums; Will Fratesi later took over drumming duties from Campion. Their concluding show took place on New Year's Eve 1998, with Benjamin passing away shortly thereafter on January 29, 1999.
Following Smoke’s disbandment, Bill Taft and Will Fratesi went on to establish Hubcap City, a band active within Atlanta’s music community.
Guitarist Coleman Lewis passed away in May 2014 due to a heroin overdose.
Discography
- Pretend 7" (1993, Colossal Records)
- Pretend
- Dirt
- Heaven on a Popsicle Stick CD (1994, LongPlay Records)
- Hole
- Awake
- Freak (Winn's Song)
- The Trip
- Hank Aaron (lyrics by Dana Kletter)
- Luke's Feet
- Beeper Will
- The Pond
- I Do
- Ballet
- Guilt
- Abigail
- Curtains
- Another Reason To Fast CD (1995, LongPlay Records)
- Trust
- Friends
- When It Rains
- Clean White Bed
- Shadow Box
- Dream
- Fatherland
- Train Song
- Debbey's Song
- Chad
- That Look
- I Don't
- Snake
Compilation appearances
- ? CD (1992)
- Smoke – Dog
Lineup included Benjamin, Bill Taft, Brian Halloran, and Todd Butler. This was a benefit compilation.
- Radio Oddyssey Volume 2: The Georgia Music Show CD (1997 Altered Records/Ichiban)
- Smoke – Hamlet
A collection highlighting Georgia-based musicians.
- Rudy's Rockin' Kiddie Caravan CD (1997 Bloodshot Records)
- Smoke – Old Joe Clark
A compilation featuring artists from various genres.
- Hidden Tracks CD (2000, Daemon Records)
- Smoke – Midnight
Showcasing alternative and indie performers alongside tracks by Smoke.