Zak Smith’s songwriting and lyrical talent is something beyond a pencil & a piece of paper. This “something” is what you feel when you get wrapped up in his words and emotions while fighting the urge to drop to your knees in surrender or jump out of your seat in celebration. Influenced by his roots of Leonard Cohen & Elvis Costello, Zak reveals prevailing choruses and melodic hooks in an alternative rock genre leaning towards new favorites, Kings of Leon & The Killers. His music has been described by critics as “haunting indie rock with Americana accents” (Berkeley Place), as “rocks with oodles of soul” (Muzik Reviews), and as "someone opening up their life to you" (Jersey Beat). Born in New Jersey, Zak started playing in bands at a young age. Flourishing as a prolific songwriter and lyricist over time, he pursued the ideal musicians who would felicitate his brand. Zak has found his match with this group of great friends and experienced musicians, and in 2010 he formed his band in New York City. The band is Zak on guitar and vocals, Gavi Grodsky on guitar, Dave Smith on bass, Keith Robinson on drums, Milan Sudzuk & Kurt Thum on keyboards, and Jessica Labus on backing vocals. Playing mostly in the New York City area the last couple years, 2011 looks to be the year that Zak has been waiting for his entire life by touring the country, breaking boundaries, and taking his career to another level. Off to a great start, Zak successfully released Haunted Feet on January 26, 2011 and plans to play SXSW. “In just five tracks Zak Smith had me convinced that he has what it takes to make his mark on music history if he gets a chance.” - Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck - MuzikReviews.com