SPOOL
(image
for) drawing on canvas
(self-released)
After several singles the past couple of years, Japanese four-piece, SPOOL, return with a full length at the end of 2022! There is something special about this band, but to be honest, I have a difficult time putting my finger on it. They are always solid. They mine a style that is a psychedelic indie rock that reminds me of the early Teenage Fanclub, when they were more similar the Dinosaur Jr than the Byrds.
This new LP fits right in, yet mines another adjacent style. The songs and production here are very straight ahead and streamlined. SPOOL have often employed a dreamier, exploratory sound, but here the basslines are tight with the massive sounding drums. This album would’ve fit neatly into the US dominated 4AD record label years from about 91-95. I’m talking about when 4AD began releasing alterna-rock hits by US bands like Pixies, Throwing Muses, Belly, and especially the Breeders. I’m not implying that Spool sounds like these bands, or is copying their sound, I’m just saying that if you appreciated these artists, you might enjoy this one.
From the tight thumping of the momentum gathering opening instrumental “fu_ka_n” to the closing melancholy “nevv song,” this album is pleasing at every stop. The highlights for me are the vaguely Lush-like ”Somewhere,” which scratches many itches, along with the heavy and cranking “In My Head,” which includes a guitar line that sounds like a buoy beacon in the distance, and the two minute scorcher “P-90.” “Light of the Sun” is amazing too, despite ripping off the opening of Adorable’s 1994 “Vendetta” single. What a song to steal from though!! It becomes its own rocker by the time the first verse comes in. The three pre-LP singles are all nice inclusions, though surprisingly, three of the quieter additions.
SPOOL, have easily earned the honor of being a band that I will continue to purchase prior to hearing new offerings. I know that sounds silly, but I take that very seriously. There aren’t many that my tightwad hands will ungrip for sound unheard. It almost feels like they’re taken for granted after only three excellent albums.
(https://spool1991.bandcamp.com/album/image-for-drawing-on-canvas)
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