New EP from Smallpools

Smallpools is an indie rock trio based between the cities of Nashville and Los Angeles who’ve been on a thrilling musical adventure since their explosive debut in 2013 with their eponymous EP. Formed by vocalist Sean Scanlon, guitarist Michael Kamerman and drummer Beau Kuther, the band captured hearts with their hit single “Dreaming,” quickly ascending to the top of charts, earning widespread acclaim and racking up over a hundred million streams.

Two year later, their acclaimed debut record LOVETAP!, saw them selling out venues nationwide. Since then, multiple singles, EPs, full-length records and remixes have seen the band build up an astonishing catalogue of music while winning over fans all over the world.

Now, Smallpools opens a new chapter with their brand new EP titled Ghost Town Road (east), offering a window into their forthcoming album. Recorded at Michael Kamerman’s house in Los Angeles and featuring collaborations with Colin CreeV of Third Eye Blind and Mitchy Collins of lovelytheband, the EP is a superb showcase of the band’s arena-ready hooks, impeccable production and genre-fluid music.

Kicking off the five-track release, “Swayze” launches into a shimmering pop-focused indie anthem built on bouncy uptempo rhythms and vibrant instrumental plucks. Sean’s bright vocal leads thread catchy melodic hooks throughout as the song flows with light rock edge to take flight into infectious choruses packed full of memorable lines and energising arrangement.

“Night Shift” follows with rich vocal tones riding punching drums and airy guitar tones, resulting in another upbeat jam brimming with charming songwriting, wrapped in a slick dose of indie pop rock music. Intricate guitar layers, lush backing vocals and playful piano plinks, driven by the strike of drums deliver a stunning sound that channels an 80s-tinged aesthetic filtered through the band’s thoroughly modern sonic lens.

With “Fake a Happy Face!” the band brings down the tempo to craft a laid back indie rock groover capped by soaring vocals that spin emphatic lines above shiny instrumental textures. The perfect display of the band’s wide appeal, the track sees them serve up bold, swaying rhythms, dynamic ebb and flow and glowing melodic leads.

“Motorbike (Wild Ones)” hops with shuffling drums, soft synth stabs and laid back vocals carrying storytelling lyricism. Distilling retro synth pop influences into a rousing indie anthem, it’s a highlight on an EP that’s flawless from start to finish.

Closing the EP with “Caller ID,” the band lays down one final moment of instantly catchy indie bliss via a danceable outing that showcases Smallpools at their very finest. Across Ghost Town Road (east), the band offers an epic listening experience that’s original, utterly delightful and impossible not to love.

Listen to Ghost Town Road (east) below