Maverick Smith‘s latest album, ‘We Make Fire They Make Smoke,’ represents synergy, authenticity, and attitude. In this interview, lead singer Paige Bosic discusses everything from band chemistry and bold sounds to the intimate feel of their music and why they choose real instruments over samples.
1. For new listeners, when was the band formed, and how many members are currently in it?
We released our debut album just last year, and there are five of us playing together live now. Both albums feature guest musicians we’re incredibly lucky to have worked with—including Ken Stringfellow (The Posies, R.E.M.), Dallas Dwight (L.A. Steady, Sebastian Bach), a globe-spanning group of orchestral players, and Ohio Valley legend Johnny DiCarlo (U.S. Kids).
2. What sets the new album ‘We Make Fire They Make Smoke’ apart from the previous one?
Both albums definitely take creative risks, but this one feels more personal and more collaborative. The first album marked the first time in over a decade that Sean Boynes and Dan Bozek worked together, with Sean serving as the primary songwriter. On ‘We Make Fire They Make Smoke,’ Sean and I teamed up to write and finalize the songs together, which gave it a different energy and brought new voices into the process.
3. What moment made you realize this was THE title for the album?
We went back and forth on titles—even thought about making it self-titled. But when someone first said ‘We Make Fire They Make Smoke,’ it just clicked for all of us. It felt like the right mix of swagger and meaning.
4. If ‘We Make Fire They Make Smoke’ was the soundtrack to a movie that doesn’t exist yet, what kind of crazy movie would that be?
Someone once told us this album feels like a 2000s rom-com—and honestly, I get that, especially with songs like “Feel It Back” and “Keep Me Up.” Maybe it’s like Scott Pilgrim vs. The World… but the Maverick Smith version.
5. Where and when is the perfect time and place for someone to hear this album for the first time?
Honestly? A long road trip. Windows down, somewhere between city lights and nowhere. This album has something for every mood—whether you’re laughing, crying, or just trying to find your new favorite song.
6. Was there a song that totally went rogue on you guys, like you started writing one thing and it ended up being something completely different?
Absolutely. “Imposter Syndrome” started off as more of a Country song. But as we played around with it, it took on this Bluesy, Indie-Rock feel. We followed the vibe instead of forcing it, and it ended up being one of our favorites.
7 – Tell us about your upcoming summer concert series – what’s this six-show residency at Primanti Brothers in Weirton all about?
This six-show summer residency at Primanti Brothers in Weirton is a full-circle moment for us. We all grew up in the Ohio Valley, where Primanti’s legendary sandwiches—stacked with fries and slaw—are as much a part of local life as live music.
Teaming up with Primanti Brothers has been a perfect fit, not just for the shows, but because they’ve joined us in supporting Harmony Health, a nonprofit we’re passionate about that expands healthcare access for people with disabilities. A portion of proceeds from both the band and the venue go toward that mission, making this residency about more than just music—it’s about giving back to the community that raised us.
8. Is there a track that’s basically a middle finger to someone specific?
Let’s just say… some songs have a little fire behind them. We won’t name names, but if one of these tracks helps someone scream into a pillow over an ex, a boss, or whoever, go for it. That’s part of the magic of music.
9. What does Classic Rock lose or gain when real instruments are replaced by more digital methods like samples?
Samples have opened up music to more people, and that’s a good thing. But there’s something you can’t fake with real instruments—it’s imperfect, it’s human, it breathes. We leaned into that and brought in amazing musicians to help capture it.
10. If you were offered the chance to make an album using samples and no one would ever know… would you take on the challenge or turn it down on principle?
We’d probably pass. For us, the magic is in the process—collaborating with, layering real sounds, making something honest. That personal touch is everything.
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Hi, I’m Erick Ycaza — a music blogger with a BA in Advertising & Graphic Design. I created this blog to keep you updated with daily music news. Surprisingly, I’ve been writing about music since 2007. If you’re an artist and would like to be featured, feel free to reach out: info@electrowow.net
