Smoke or Fire is an American punk rock band that emerged from the vibrant music scene of Boston, Massachusetts. Initially formed in 1998 under the name Jericho, the band underwent a name change to Smoke or Fire in the early 2000s, coinciding with their move to Richmond, Virginia, and a shift in lineup. Their gritty, melodic sound quickly garnered attention, leading to a deal with renowned punk label Fat Wreck Chords, through which they released several of their notable works.

With a reputation for hard-edged punk anthems and introspective lyrics, Smoke or Fire has carved out a distinctive niche within the punk rock genre. Their full-length debut on Fat Wreck Chords, "Above the City" (2005), set the stage for their subsequent releases. The band displayed a persistent evolution in sound and storytelling through albums such as "This Sinking Ship" (2007), "The Speakeasy" (2010), and impactful EPs like "When the Battery Dies" (2000), which has been reissued after their initial underground success. Songs like "Beauty Fades," "Modesty," and "50 Cent Hearts" exemplify their ability to blend energetic riffs with thought-provoking themes, crafting music that resonates with a dedicated fanbase. Despite periods of inactivity, Smoke or Fire's contribution to the punk scene remains influential, marked by authentic and impassioned songwriting.