Presumably Snake was another title Joe ‘White’ Williams’ also considered for his debut album. Seeing as it boasts an underbelly as filthy as any cold-blooded reptile. Smoke is just as apposite, though, conjuring up images of speakeasy-esque bluish-grey vapours.

Yet to discover the actual record-making process is to destroy that imagery. As it was recorded in various sublets over two years in Cleveland, Cincinatti, New York, and San Francisco, using a laptop, analog synths and a mutable selection of studio equipment. Which all sounds somewhat clinical.

No matter. Williams’ Smoke won’t get in your eyes, but it will permeate your ears. And as it’s pop music laced with his dark materials, this Smoke will choke.

(4/5)