Sid Simons shares his past, present, and future in his debut album ‘Beneath the Brightest Smiles’

Darling of the New York City rock scene, Sid Simons, has released his debut album Beneath the Brightest Smiles. In this nine-track album, Simons introduces himself through youthful tales of his family and upbringing and is supported by eclectic, 60s Americana and folk musicianship provided by The Darlings. 

Sid Simons in press photo by Matt Weinberger (@mweinbergerr)

We hear the full force of Sid Simons and The Darlings as the opener “Wendy” begins. “Wendy” is a fitting opener for Simons’s debut album as it was many fans’ introduction to his music. In August of 2023, Simons’s fanbase expanded beyond his loyal New York City family after “Wendy” was featured in a viral TikTok video. The song is refreshingly carefree despite being about a girl who desperately has “something on her mind.” With its retro synth sounds, energetic music breaks, and engaging lyrics, it’s clear why “Wendy” has captured so many hearts.

When “Wendy” leaves us eager for more, “Three Days” satiates our hunger. “Three Days” tells the unconventional yet charming story of Simons’s experience with a girl who pursued him only after being rejected by his brother. The upbeat tempo and swinging instrumentals encourage listeners to join Simons in marveling at the ridiculousness of the situation as he repeats “You don’t even really know me.”

The album slows down with the standout track, “Dirt,” in which Simons voices a vulnerable thought that many people bear but are afraid to claim: “I just want to leave my life, just for a little while.” The bold grand piano and swooning strings draw from the raw sadness of such a statement. However, the tone lifts as the guitar joins Simons in a ballad and he sings “The saddest souls have the brightest smiles.” The full band bursts in for a celebratory and cathartic ending that embraces the power and pride that come from owning one’s feelings.

Another powerful theme Simons draws from is his family and upbringing. “Dead Ringer” is a ditty that begins with witty rhymes describing a town with no unique qualities. Unlike the town that you, I, or Simons grew up in, the song is full of character and life. Folk sounds and a bright saxophone blend with descriptive lyrics to paint a clear image of the least interesting middle-American town you will never know. “The Stanely Song” introduces us to one character who accompanied him during these years, his brother Stanley. In this crooning rock anthem, we relate to Simons’s contradictive affections towards his brother as he declares that he will never allow for anyone to hurt Stanley… unless it’s Simons himself.

In a sonic twist, “Only Smile” radiates Southern comfort with its relaxed rhythm and twangy guitars. Simons’s vocals deepen to a balmy tone, and harmonious backing vocals saturate the rich, sultry imagery. This soulful '60s sound is continued in the luminous track, “If I Said A Word,” in which Simons invites listeners to join him on the journey of persevering beyond one’s feelings of doubt and shame to achieve clarity and self-actualization.

In the final track of the album, Simons affirms just how earnestly he values his family as he puts his pride aside to share the vulnerable plea that is “Please Stop Smoking Mum.” The soft, timid nature of the song contradicts the harsh but honest visuals of illness and suffering in the lyrics. Beneath the Brightest Smiles is a warm and bright album full of emotion and celebration, and “Please Stop Smoking Mum” is the lullaby that gently soothes us to sleep at the end of that summer day.

Catch Sid Simons and The Darlings live in New York in May and on their Pacific Northwest tour in June here.

Read Off The Record’s December 2023 interview with Sid Simons and The Darlings here.

Beneath the Brightest Smiles is out now.