The White Buffalo Tells Stories Through Song

The strong, smoky voice behind The White Buffalo is singer-songwriter Jake Smith. Born in Oregon and raised on the southern California coast, Smith is part of what he calls a "dying breed": musicians who are also storytellers.

His forthcoming album, Shadows, Greys & Evil Ways, is a narrative that unfolds song by song. It traces the story of Joe White, a young man who runs away with his lover, Jolene, to start a new life. But the pair soon run into financial trouble, and Joe is forced to enlist in the army. He comes home from war an altered man, plagued by the horrors of what he experienced. But the story ends on a hopeful note: through the strength of his love for Jolene, Joe slowly finds redemption.

The White Buffalo was in Boston this past weekend playing at the club Church. Before his performance, he stopped by our studio to talk about his new album and play for us.

Shadows, Greys & Evil Ways comes out on September 10th. 

The White Buffalo, singer and songwriter.