"Smell the Magic" is the second studio album by American rock band L7, originally released in 1990 by Sub Pop Records. Initially, the album was issued as a 12" EP containing the first six tracks. However, in July 1991, it was reissued on CD with additional tracks, expanding it to full album length. The reissue included three new songs: "Packin' a Rod," "Just Like Me," and "American Society."
The album opens with the track "Shove," which also served as L7's debut single. "Smell the Magic" is noted for its raw and energetic sound, characteristic of the grunge and punk rock scenes of the late 1980s and early 1990s. L7's music on this album combines elements of punk, hard rock, and grunge, reflecting their confrontational and rebellious attitude.
While "Smell the Magic" initially gained attention with its original EP release, the expanded CD version allowed the band to showcase more of their material. The album as a whole captures L7's fierce and unapologetic approach to music, solidifying their place in the alternative rock landscape of the time.
Overall, "Smell the Magic" remains a significant album in L7's discography, showcasing their early sound and setting the stage for their subsequent success in the alternative rock scene.
