ALBUM REVIEW: Smith / Kotzen - Black Light / White Noise


The ideal soundtrack as I travel across the Portuguese interior by train, the sophomore release by Adrian Smith and Richie Kotzen is a smooth as the coffee I sipped along the way. 

A combination of bluesy rock swagger, the duo’s previous self-titled release is drenched with a quality that comes from decades of experience. Whilst it may not be the rapier thrusting of Iron Maiden, Smith’s style has always been more reserved, cleverer and with a distinctive style that makes his playing something special as well as instantly recognisable. Kotzen may sit slightly lower in the hall of fame, but not by much. Look up his history if you want some clarification. It’s feel-good rock music which has hooks big enough to snare an orca. 

First single White Noise hangs in the memory for days, whilst the groove that underpins Black Light highlights not just the phenomenal guitar work but the vocal ability of both musicians. The crisp production allows room for the music to breath, and whilst the guitars are always going to be central, the overall vibe of the song is such that all elements work in a delicious harmony. Whilst the duo play hard rock with a melodic twist, they don’t stick to the blueprint. Darkside sees a deeper, emotional side which allows acoustic instruments to take the lead, the duo’s harmonies work in tandem with the semi-Country style that smoulders to a perfection that only musicians of this calibre can bring. 


Throughout Black Light / White Noise, it’s easy to see and hear why the duo have found working together so comfortable. There’s an obvious gelling of talent; a symbiotic combination that has developed organically as the songs have been crafted. Take the bouncing Wraith, with a hard spine that holds the track tightly together. It’s a song that on first listen sounds routine, yet a closer listen gives you much more, with rock solid rhythm and some delightfully powerful lead work. 

Smith and Kotzen’s second album bring much to the party. And they close with a stunning seven-minute song in Beyond the Pale, an evocative and beautiful track that is a real slow burn, with the duo switching vocals and lead work with ease. They may have nothing to prove, but this is an album that will bring joy to many. Taking two rock legends and allowing them to create music doesn’t always work, but here it proves that when it comes together, then it really does.

Black Light / White Noise is released on 4th April via BMG



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