Award-winning blues artist Joce Reyome showcases soulful songwriting, gritty blues, and live energy on the six-song collection Smoke Break.
Award-winning blues artist Joce Reyome is stepping into a new chapter with the release of Smoke Break, a six-song collection. Blending soulful storytelling, gritty blues, and the commanding energy that has become a hallmark of Reyome’s live performances, the new release captures an artist continuing to carve out their own space in the genre. Following a landmark 2025 that included a win at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Smoke Break also offers the first glimpse of an even bigger project on the horizon, with Reyome’s full-length album set to arrive in spring 2027.
Opening Smoke Break, “I Don’t Miss You” sets a slower, soulful tone, showcasing Reyome’s powerful vocals and storytelling. The repeated “I don’t miss you” pairs vulnerability with defiance, making for an emotionally charged start to the release.
One of the immediate standouts on Smoke Break is “MR. RAIN,” a bluesy, catchy number that showcases Reyome’s immaculate vocals. The verses have a playful, almost sing-song quality as Reyome bargains with Mr. Rain to finally leave them alone, but the chorus shifts into a gruffer, more rockin’ delivery that gives the song some extra bite. There’s humour throughout, but underneath it is that relatable feeling of being completely fed up and desperate for a break. With its mix of blues, rock, personality, and a chorus that sticks with you, “MR. RAIN” quickly became one of my favourites on the EP.
Closing out Smoke Break, “Party Line” sends the release off on an upbeat, rockin’ high. Fast, fun, groovy, and downright danceable, the track pairs playful telephone-themed lyrics with Reyome’s rapid, sing-song delivery. The repeated “Why dontcha call me / I’m sitting here waiting” adds an instantly catchy hook, while Reyome’s vocal strength and personality make it an infectious finale.
Overall, Smoke Break is a strong showcase of Joce Reyome’s range, moving effortlessly between soul, blues, rock, humour, and raw emotion. Across six tracks, Reyome’s powerful vocals and personality remain front and centre, offering an exciting taste of what’s to come on the full-length album in 2027.