"Where There's Smoke" is a highly acclaimed album by the American funk band, War. The album was released in 1979 under the RCA label. It is the band's final record released in the 1970s, marking the end of a highly successful decade for the band.
While the album didn't gain the same popularity as some of their earlier releases, it still established its place in the canon of War's seminal work. The album comprises of eight tracks, with a notable balance between uptempo funk songs and mellow, soulful tunes. These include the songs like "Corns & Callouses (Hey Dr. Shoals)" and "The Seven Tin Soldiers". The album demonstrates the versatility of War, showcasing their ability to blend genres such as funk, jazz, rock, and R&B.
Despite its initial underwhelming commercial response, "Where There's Smoke" is recognized for its stylistic diversity and the fusion of musical styles, which is hallmarked as War's signature sound. Over the years, it has earned a cult following among fans of the band and connoisseurs of the funk genre.
The overarching theme of the album, as suggested by its title, explores the association of smoke with various paradigms - danger, mystery, and transformation. This theme combined with War's distinctive funky sound makes "Where There's Smoke" a unique musical journey, representing the culmination of War's pioneering work during the 1970s.
"Where There's Smoke" serves as a testament to War's innovative contribution to funk music and their enduring influence on subsequent musical acts. It is a significant inclusion in the discography of War, reflecting their distinctive musical approach and creativity.
