The second full-length album from Eric Hirshberg, Second Hand Smoke explores relatable truths of life’s beauty and struggles, from the introspective anxiety in “Half Way Home” to the celebration of sobriety in “I Love Not Drinking.” Each song is an evocative journey, weaving personal reflection with universally relatable insights. A meditative folk sound persists throughout, pairing the quality lyricism with engaging melodies and vocal work.
Aptly emitting a warming salutation as the album’s opening track, “Good Morning” shows a heartfelt radiance in greeting sunlight as it awakens the day. Love and hope are further referenced, illustrating an evident appreciation for life and each day waking up. The “since you’ve been gone,” acknowledgement depicts a bleaker shift, tonally, as the lyrics contemplate on one’s own place in life following the departure of a loved one. The approachably bright verses and striving to “alleviate the pain,” in the central hook showcase a stirring dynamic, amidst a consistently melodic production.
Further relatability is artfully conveyed on the subsequent “Half Way Home,” where anxieties over a suspicious mole and ruminations on regret craft a tender perspective on growing older, and the importance of companionship. “I’m only half way home,” multiple vocal layers engross during the chorus, adorned with strings and clap-laden percussion, while putting time in perspective. “Everyone Believes” follows with a soulful simmering of organs and choral vocal backings. Redemption, rebirth, and connectivity thematically intertwine on this meditative success.
Second Hand Smoke impresses in its lyrical wisdom, without being overly preach-y. Case in point with “I Love Not Drinking,” which celebrates the benefits of a life not driven by alcohol — devoid of hangovers, second-guessing of nights before, and toxic relationships. Playful piano bounces and whistling add to the easy-going vibe, melding well with a jubilant quality that resembles one re-taking control of their life; it’s stellar continuation of redemption/rebirth themes on the preceding “Everyone Believes,” as well as the inevitability of aging on “Half Way Home.”
The album’s second half continues the introspective, melodic songwriting. “Day One” casts a more subdued mystique, exuding a Tom Waits-esque musical backing in the ghostly vocals and keys/guitars interplay, while “Unbroken” continues that folk-set intrigue in aspirations of “trying to suck out the poison.” Twangy guitars and piano flourishes complement a chorus that exudes a sympathetic ear, reminding of how “broken people,” can be a detriment to one’s own personal goals, while also giving credence to their personal grief and hardships. Second Hand Smoke continues to tackle emotional complexity with contemplative precision.
Album finale “Goodnight, Nobody” is a beautiful farewell, suitable in its nighttime setting following the opening “Good Morning” opposite effervescence. Lovely strings adorn soft acoustics, as vocals let out “goodnight work thoughts, goodnight boss,” in a search for tranquility. It’s a fitting send-off to Second Hand Smoke, a riveting display in relatable songwriting from Eric Hirshberg, who beyond the world of music is also a notable success in the business world; he was the former CEO of Activision and other prominent companies.
Second Hand Smoke releases on September 13th, and will be followed by a show at LA’s Hotel Cafe on September 15th.
