It’s rare to see a band, especially a new band with only one album in their discography, headline and sell out the opening night of a tour. However, to many Radiohead fans, The Smile is not just a new band. It’s a rare chance to hear more work from the combined powerful minds of Thom Yorke, Jonny Greenwood, and Tom Skinner (of Sons of Kermet). The Smile was formed in 2020 during the Covid-19 lockdown and have only done a handful of performances since. Providence was gifted with hosting the band’s first ever show in North America. The opener for the tour is Robert Stillman, an experimental artist, who set an ambient tone for the show. However, The Smile’s set was far from ambient. The crowd rose to their feet after the second song of the night with many attendees dancing to the upbeat bass, catchy guitar riffs, and beeping synthesizers. Since the band only has one release, much of the set list was comprised of new songs. Even those familiar with the new record were treated with surprises throughout the night. 

It’s tempting to compare Radiohead with The Smile, but the latter brings a different raw, angsty vibe that separates it from the sound of the former. Experiencing it live, whether a Radiohead fan or not, is a must. This high energy tour is not one to be missed. 

Check out our photos from the show below.