Folk/Review John Michael Hersey - Smoke Rings

Singer/songwriter/actor John Michael Hersey has released twenty albums of his music, including the January 2025 album Smoke Rings. Known for his sophisticated yet accessible melding of rock, pop, folk, blues, and country, Hersey is first and foremost a storyteller who wields a mean guitar.

“Smoke Rings,” his twentieth album, is a complex and varied aural trip that demonstrates John Michael Hersey's skill as a songwriter and storyteller once again. Well-known for fusing rock, pop, folk, blues, and country music, Hersey skillfully combines several genres while retaining a unique, individual sound.

The album “Smoke Rings” is really about introspection, resiliency, and the transient aspect of time. Each song flows like a thoughtfully written chapter, and Hersey's poignant storytelling and evocative lyrics make his tales come to life. His ability to switch between styles with ease creates a captivating music experience, whether he's expressing the gritty depth of blues, the laid-back charm of folk, or the raw intensity of rock.

Hersey's expressive guitar work is what really shines in “Smoke Rings” from captivating solos to delicate acoustic fingerpicking, every note sounds purposeful and intensely felt. His warm, experienced vocals combined with his skills provide a setting that is both personal and spacious.

With twenty of albums under his belt, “Smoke Rings” is proof of Hersey's enduring love of sound design and narrative. It's a remarkable contribution to his ever expanding body of work as it not only demonstrates musical prowess but also emotional depth. “Smoke Rings” is a timeless and engrossing experience that lingers long after the final note fades, regardless of how long you've been a fan or how new you are.