The Wood Brothers are no strangers to genre fluidity, but their latest single, “The Trick,” from the upcoming Puff of Smoke (August 1, 2025, via Honey Jar/Thirty Tigers), throws a curveball even for them. Gone are the familiar acoustic textures, replaced by a grungier, more introspective sound. Jano Rix’s distorted Fender Rhodes lays down a murky, hypnotic bed, while Chris Wood’s upright bass pulses with an unexpected, driving intensity. It’s a sonic detour that feels less like a conscious reinvention and more like an organic evolution, born from improvised studio sessions.
Lyrically, Oliver Wood confronts the pervasive self-doubt that often plagues creativity, advocating for a bold embracing of the present that may well, based on earlier statements, be inspired by the band’s shared focus on meditation and mindfulness. “The Trick” isn’t a neat answer, but a musing on the elusive goal of artistic liberation. As they continue their extensive summer and autumn tours, “The Trick” suggests The Wood Brothers are still finding new ways to surprise and engage.
The Wood Brothers’ summer US tour is currently underway, including co-headline dates with St. Paul & The Broken Bones in June and July, along with festival and headline shows through September. They have announced a 17-date U.S. tour this autumn, with dates in November and December. More info and tickets at thewoodbros.com.
The Wood Brothers’ Puff Of Smoke is out August 1 on 180-Gram Vinyl, CD & Digital formats. Pre-order available at: https://orcd.co/wb-puff