The Smile Unveils New Album with a Unique Video of Performance for Children Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson

The band known as The Smile has launched an intriguing new music video for their song 'Friend Of A Friend', which stands out not only for its musical content but also due to the acclaimed director behind it – Paul Thomas Anderson. The video features the musical group performing this track in an unusual setting: a room full of young children.

A Tough Audience

The video offers a fascinating glimpse into how these kids react to the live performance of The Smile's latest track, with candid shots of unimpressed and distracted children during the show. Despite the challenges, as the video progresses, the children become more engaged, and by the end, they cheer enthusiastically for the band, rewarding the musicians with hearty applause.

Music and Collaboration

The Smile, which commemorates the release of their second album titled 'Wall Of Eyes', chose a special way to mark the occasion. With a style that fuses rock elements and innovative sounds, the band's music draws on experiences from the pandemic period. Their lyrics reflect themes like connectedness and resilience, highlighting the spirit of solidarity that music can foster even in challenging times. It's a sentiment particularly evident in 'Friend Of A Friend's lyrics: "I can go anywhere that I want / I just gotta turn myself inside out and back to front".

The collaboration between the members of The Smile and director Paul Thomas Anderson has been longstanding, especially with Jonny Greenwood, who has scored multiple Anderson films, including the recent 'Licorice Pizza'. Thom Yorke has also previously worked with Anderson, including on a project for Yorke's solo album 'Anima'.

The Smile's Latest Album and Tour

According to recent reviews, 'Wall Of Eyes' is a testament to the evolving sound of The Smile, showcasing their ability to potentially redefine their musical legacy beyond their connections to the band Radiohead. As they continue to carve out their unique identity, The Smile is also embarking on a tour across the UK and Ireland, extending their reach to live audiences eager to experience their new material.

album, video, tour