A Thousand Horses, ‘Smoke’ – ToC Critic’s Pick [Listen]

‘Smoke’ is the debut single a new artist dreams of. The first effort from a Thousand Horses is instantly recognizable, but not at the expense of strong songwriting.

“She's smoke / I put her in nice and slow / She's a habit and I can't let go / Blowing rings around my heart,” ATH lead singer Michael Hobby sings to start each chorus.

“The one she stole / Watching her sway and go / It's killing me and I know / Can't stop her once you start / She's smoke.”

The magic begins before that, however. The very first line of ‘Smoke’ touches all five senses, setting up a song you more experience than listen to. Hobby’s gritty style is perfect for the story he tells.

“She comes rolling right off of the tip of my tongue so easy / She'll be the first damn thing I want when I start drinking / I'm breathing her in, breathing her out / Once I pick her up I can't put her down / She's smoke,” he sings.

Hobby is originally from South Carolina, and his band’s first single blends Southern rock with that indescribable Texas Country sound. It’s a mix that will work -- in fact, it has. ‘Smoke’ set a record for best debut by a brand new artist.

Key Lyrics: "She's smoke / I put her in nice and slow / She's a habit and I can't let go / Blowing rings around my heart" 

Did You Know?: A Thousand Horses' debut album, 'Southernality,' will be available June 9.

Listen to a Thousand Horses, ‘Smoke’