Smooth Retsina Glow, formed in 2019, has quickly carved out a distinctive space in the Lehigh Valley music scene, thanks to their inventive and genre-fluid approach. The trio—Colin Wolf, Natalie Expraxia, and Quincy Wellen—came together to craft Through The Needles Eye, an album that sidesteps showy technicality in favor of a more holistic, song-serving approach. It's clear that this band thrives on collective chemistry, with each member focused on the integrity of the music rather than individual prowess.
Though their foundation is rooted in classic rock, Smooth Retsina Glow is unafraid to push beyond those boundaries, exploring various subgenres that keep the album dynamic and fresh. The result feels cohesive but far from predictable, drawing on familiar influences while still carving out their own lane.
What stands out in Through The Needles Eye is the effective use of dual vocalists—a feature that can often feel like a tug-of-war for the spotlight. Here, however, it’s a well-calibrated balance. Wolf and Expraxia each bring their unique strengths, and the choice of who takes the lead on a given track feels intentional, adding depth to the record's emotional and sonic landscape.
While there aren’t any outright misfires on the album, several tracks rise above the rest. "Fervor," "Feigning Grace," "Virtuality," and "After All of This" showcase the band at their most compelling, offering a glimpse into the potential that lies ahead.
Overall, Through The Needles Eye is a solid and promising release from a band that clearly cares about their craft. Their passion for the music is palpable, and it resonates throughout the album.
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