Shotgun Smile


"Shotgun Smile" was the first single of British-based Blues-rock trio Winterville. It was released on 23 May 2005 through the band's own imprint, Toxxic Records. The single was available on CD and limited 7" Vinyl, which was signed by each member of the band.
The single was not eligible for the charts because of the sticker that came inside, supposedly to stop pressure being put on the band for their first single. While the CDs came with a mailing list card for the band, there was a mistake with the 7" and it was sent out with a mailing list card for Nine Black Alps, despite there being no connection between the two bands. Both bands' first albums started with the word 'everything'.

Track list

All songs by Peter Shoulder
The track listing for the CD and the 7" is identical.
"Shotgun Smile" appeared previously on The Fallout Sessions EP, though the single edit is 12 seconds shorter. At the time of the single's release, "Penny For The Fool" was an entirely new track, though it has since been included on the album Everything in Moderation.

Songs

"Shotgun Smile" has a dark subject matter, with lyrics about prostitution, and a menacing, bass-driven introduction before the song begins in earnest. In the words of guitarist Peter Shoulder, "It was inspired by some of the things I was seeing , and one incident in particular. London isn't exactly my favourite place in the world." The band performed the song live for UK Student Union Network, SubTV, and the video was included on the "Under My Skin" single.
"Penny For The Fool" is a departure from the band's usual sound. It is faster than many of their songs with a more aggressive main riff, and no let-up throughout the song. Its subject matter deals with a dislike for the people in the music industry, perhaps based on poor experiences the band and its members have had over the years.