Smile

Six albums into their career The Jayhawks have made a record that transcends their alt country beginnings while still maintaining some roots in that soil.

Their sound was always more rooted in rock and pop than Nashville, and since the departure of Mark Olsen, they have moved ever more in that direction whilst all the time perfecting their writing and arrangement skills. Now with noted producer Bob Ezrin at the controls they have made a big album.

Smile has a layered and modern sound that incorporates drum loops and sounds among its more traditional wares. But the towering pop of 'I'm Gonna Make You Love Me' has the potential to open the door to a whole lot more radio exposure for the band.

Beyond that, practically every other track here can draw the listener into its well-crafted heart.The more instant tracks are balanced by songs like 'Baby, Baby, Baby' which closes the album in a nosier but uplifting way - the guitars bite and the rhythm is insistent, while the vocals and harmonies are strongly defined and full of strong catchy choruses.

Smile may still feature pedal steel and dobro, but its soul is now in a different place and it's all the better for it. It is time to reassess what you think the Jayhawks are about. It may well bring a smile to your face.