Smokescreen

Smokescreen is a heavy metal group from Phoenix, Arizona, active since 2000. The line-up listed for the band includes Gus Holwerda, Luke Holwerda, Gabe Gavin, Dave LePacik and Eric Schneider.

Style and background

The band is described as playing heavy music with an emphasis on honesty and directness, and it is also associated with alternative, sci-fi rock. Their sound is presented as melodic and high-energy, with guitar effects, double bass drumming, heavy bass and intense vocals.

Live activity and releases

Smokescreen builds its reputation through extensive live work in the UK, having played more than 100 gigs and toured widely. The group supports acts including Mendeed, Breed 77 and Raging Speedhorn, and appears at a range of venues from local pubs and clubs to larger halls and clubs such as the Underworld in London and Rock City in Nottingham. It also plays at Riverside Festival to an audience of over 8,000 people.

The band self-funds three EPs and handles its own merchandise and recordings, without formal management or label backing. It also completes the “Art of Revolution” UK tour, covering 16 shows and travelling more than 1,800 miles.

Reception and airplay

Smokescreen receives strong reviews in the UK press and internationally, with coverage from Argentina, the USA, France, Italy, Holland and Germany. It also gains airplay and exposure in South America, and Bruce Dickinson of Iron Maiden plays the band on air.

Other notes

The band starts out playing cover versions in pubs and clubs before moving on to larger venues. It also sends CDs free of charge to anyone who requests one, with postage paid, and maintains its own website.