Bozeman Magazine

THE JOHN ADAM SMITH BAND This sturdy North American world roots trio is built on the original writings and acoustic compositions of multi-instrumentalist John Adam Smith. The John Adam Smith Band bears the strength of togetherness in their roots driven, world inspired, acoustic funk-rock innovations. From the percussive teachings of West Africa, to the steel driven tones of the lapsteel guitar, The J.A.S. Band combines the love of groove with a taste for edge in their genuine and effective live performance.  Emerging from Missoula, Montana, The John Adam Smith band consists of three musicians with diverse musical backgrounds. On the kit is drummer Antonio Alvarez from Madrid, Spain. Antonio has over 30 years of international performance on the stage, in the studio, and on the road as a professional drummer and percussionist. Dropping the lows and melding the tones is bassist Michael Rhead from Salt Lake City, Utah. Michael has a long time history of touring and performing as a professional bassist throughout the United States. Telling the tales and driving the strings is multi-instrumentalist John Adam Smith from Missoula, MT.  Inspired by his father and artists such as Duane Allman, Jerry Garcia, and Jimmy Hendrix, John started playing guitar when he was 10 years old. Landing his first Missoula gigs at the age of 15, John's journey to his life and profession as a songwriter and musician began. From his first bands, Smitty & The Boss, and CottonWood Draw, to The John Adam Smith Band and John's international one man band performances, his original material and danceable live performances have caught the attention of music lovers throughout the United States, Canada, and Australia. John's background is rooted in Traditional West African music. Since his early teens, John has studied with Master Djembefolas including two of his most influential teachers, Dibo Camara and Abdoul Doumbia. Combing his rhythmical roots with intricate acoustic compositions and passionate songwriting, John has developed a very unique original sound.  In 2012 John produced and recorded Ponderosa Skies. This full length studio album was released in June of 2013 at the Top Hat Lounge in Missoula. Ponderosa Skies is a collection of songs John started writing and composing at the age of 16. The album was recorded and co-produced with Chris Cunningham at Basecamp Recording in Bozeman, Montana. Chris in one of two members of the internationally cherished fold pop duo, Storyhill. Ponderosa Skies has made it's way to fans throughout the United States, Canada and Australia. John is currently following life's inspirations and continuing his journey as a musician and a story teller. Aspiring to keep his heart open and mind ready the changes life brings, he is in love with this opportunity to share his words with the wonderful folks who take the time to listen.    Tickets are available at 1111presents.com, Cactus Records (29 West Main Street), or by calling (877) 987- 6487.