The Scott A. Smith Group is an instrumental, heavy rock band hailing from Houston, Texas. The group was formed by guitarist Scott A. Smith as a vehicle to explore, write, and record original instrumental guitar compositions. Drummer Matt Kanzler and bassist Bobby Cayton make up the band's mighty rhythm section. All members are Houston area music veterans and each one brings a rich background of influence and experience to the table. Together, these three players form a seasoned, well informed rock unit. The music that they create is heavy and melodic. Always interesting and engaging… Always putting musicianship and musical invention on full display… And always loving and caring for every note. Click here for more photos
"I cannot remember a time when I was not amazed and wildly curious about music. It was in my early teen years that I discovered the guitar and quickly became completely obsessed. It was at this time that I began to take the instrument very seriously. I was set on fire by players like Eddie and Randy and all of the usual seventies and eighties suspects. I wanted to play like that! I immediately joined a Rock band and started the journey. I attended GIT/Musician's Institute and graduated in 1987. This is where I met some of my lifelong colleagues including drummer Matt Kanzler. I also studied Music in the Houston Community College Jazz Department in the nineties. I have studied many different styles of music and played in a variety of bands. I have worked and traveled extensively as a performer, instructor, clinician, student, and all around world class guitar nerd. I remain a disciple of the craft and an active member of the Houston music community and beyond.
It was a very good day when Matt and Bobby joined The Scott A. Smith Group. In addition to being stand up men, these two have a tightness as a rhythm section that can only be achieved by years of playing together, and caring about the music. They are a legendary Houston rock rhythm section and they are in my F’n band! The Electrified LP was an enormous labor of love. The band spent the time and went the extra thousand miles to ensure that every single note was considered and cared for. I believe that the band has created a “winner winner chicken dinner.” Enjoy and thanks for listening. Rock!" Click here for more photos
"I developed an interest in rhythm at an early age, playing on coffee cans and school desk tops. I began playing drums at eight years old and subsequently joined stage and marching bands in school and took private lessons as well. After high school I attended Musicians Institute in L.A. where I met Scott. Upon graduating I moved to Houston.
I have worked with Scott and Bobby in many original and cover/tribute bands in the past. When Scott approached us about collaborating on a recording project, we immediately jumped on board. It has been rewarding working on this from the ground up. Much time and effort was put in and we hope that is reflected in the Electrified album. 🤘🏻" Click here for more photos
“I was introduced to music at an early age. I learned piano, guitar, drums, and sang in school choir. While in high school I began playing in bands. This is when I picked up the bass guitar. I moved from Huntsville, Texas to Houston in the late eighties to live out my dreams of playing music and becoming a star. From that time until present day I have pursued music and music performance. Through the years I have been, and continue to be, a part of many original projects as well as countless cover and tribute bands.
When Scott asked me if I was interested in writing with him and Matt, I was in immediately. I have known Scott and Matt since our early days in the Houston music scene. I was always blown away by their talent and kindness. It took us a great deal of time to write these songs, piece them all together, record, mix, and remix. I believe that it was well worth the wait!” Click here for more photos