Up-and-coming band Smoking Toads plays first show

Located on Austin’s Red River Street, Room 710 has given many up-and-coming local bands the opportunity to rock their souls out. On Jan. 27, the Smoking Toads took their turn and debuted. Consisting of Ann (vocals, guitar), Phil (bass), and Tyler (drums), the Smoking Toads played a staggering rock show. Since 2003, Ann, 24, has been searching for strong, talented musicians to fulfill her passion for having a band. After years of hardships, Ann’s dream started coming true when Phil and Tyler, both 20, joined her last October. Since then, the trio has been rehearsing and making original music. “Even though it was their first show, they played like they’ve been playing for a while now,” said Sofia Torres, a concert viewer. With distinct guitar melodies and Ann’s unique raspy but breathtaking voice, little by little the Smoking Toads will be taking over our body, minds, and ipods. Their single “Scuffle” is an instrumental song with diverse, out-of-this world tunes. “For a local band I thought they did a good job,” added Torres. “They stole the show towards the end with the great guitar solos.” Another viewer, Billy Martinez, describes their style as “unique and fresh with an element of classic rock.” “Their music is different,” concluded Luis Martinez. For more information on this rock trio, whose journey is barely beginning, visit www.myspace.com/smokintoads. Room 710 has offered the people of Austin a downtown bar for their choice of entertainment. Though specializing in diverse forms of rock, Room 710 is open to all types of music and entertains audiences with shows almost every day of the week. For more upcoming Austin shows check out www.showlistaustin.com.