There is no one more appropriate to head up Ski Bum Music's first "Skid of the Month" column than the one-and-only Justin Smith. For those who know him, we need not say more. For those that don't, we can only hope to reveal just a few insights into the man, the myth, the mad rabbit himself, Justin Smith.

When Justin is not playing music, he's either skiing, mountain biking, hiking, cleaning bathrooms, or sleeping. This maddening schedule keeps Justin in bed until 10:00 am during the week, and noon on the weekends. His light frame and unequivocal balance allows him to move quickly on and off the slopes, while giving him the agility required for the unhinged antics that he displays with regularity.

Justin plays music in the popular Jackson Hole bands Mandatory Air and Wildwood Fire. He also hosts an open stage every Friday night at the Shady Lady Saloon at Snow King Resort in Jackson. His solid rhythm guitar work and soulful vocals have made him eye-candy when he enters Albertsons and other public buildings in the valley. When he’s not looking for "Justin Treat" staples, he can be found loitering in the peanut butter isle with several beautiful young fans.

SBM: Do you have indoor plumbing?

JS: Yes, and I’m moving into a trailer this month.... on the Teton Village Rd.

SBM: Who are your ski bum music influences?

JS: B. Parker. He was the first ski bum musician I met in Jackson.

SBM: Is playing a groove the same as skiing a groove?

JS: Put on a smile and let it ride.

SBM: Is there a connection between skiing and music?

JS: Well; playing live, yes. More so than when I’m practicing. Gigging live is like being at the top of the Hobacks. [ski run at JH] Ready, set, go...

SBM: What’s your favorite drink?

JS: Jack and Coke.

SBM: What’s your favorite ski run?

JS: Taylor Mt. - East face. [Teton Pass, Wilson, WY]

SBM: Who is your favorite apres ski musician?

JS: Bob Greenspan. Last year he had people dancing on the tables at Nick Wilson’s. [Main cafeteria at Jackson Hole]

SBM: What was your favorite experience as an apres ski musician?

JS: When I was playing at the Out of Bounds [groovy après ski hangout in Teton Village] G. Love came up and joined the bluegrass band on harp. Then he invited us to play with him at the Mangy Moose. We did.