Sweden’s Johnny Kobra has apparently been playing in rock clubs since the age of 12, and played every instrument on this album himself. Now residing in Los Angeles, he’s another reason why I’m starting to think they must be putting something in the water in Sweden as he is another addition to the ever-growing list of bands from that part of the world who are embracing classic rock and roll and making that part of their sound.

The songs on The Smell Of Rock And Roll all sound pretty commercial, however coming from a man who previously wrote music for advertisements, films, and video games, this isn’t very surprising. The likes of opening track Can’t Get Enough and The Rhythm Of Roundness are instantly catchy, with pop-rock choruses.

Jesus Blues lived up to his name, with a fuzzy, bluesier sound than some of the other more radio-friendly songs. So Long and the title track are in the same vein, and I liked these the best; they sounded much more interesting to my ears than some of the catchier stuff.

Album closer, the melodic Hollywood (Weight Of The World) is a song worthy of ending the album, and one of my favourites.

I can’t help but think that in some cases, the songs maybe just weren’t energetic enough… but the fact that Johnny basically did this entire album himself; both in terms of playing and writing, is more than admirable, so for that, any criticisms are minor.
6.5/10
Suzie