The album of month is bestowed to Austin’s indie-rock royalty better know as Spoon. As they enter their second decade of musical output, Spoon refuse to rest on past glories. Hot Thoughts features cognizant elements fans have come to expect with an ambitious experimental sound. Hot Thoughts incorporates a wall of synths and electronic melodies to their “bar room rock n roll.” Hot Thoughts is criminally catchy pop record that is an early contender for albums of the year.
Lead singer and main lyricist Daniel Britt exudes Linus Van Peit swagger. Even though Daniel is in his mid-forties he still conveys “wall flower” characteristics of yesteryear. Soft spoken, introspective, boyish good looks, disheveled hair (evoking Beyonce Knowles culture defining lyric “I woke up like this”).On stage Daniel transforms from wallflower to full-fledged indie rock star. Just the right hint of cockiness and aw shucks demeanor. Spoon are working man’s indie rock group that have garnered acclaimed and fans through blood, sweat, and beer.
Spoon are a pop band that rocks
Spoon are a pop band that rocks. Throughout their career Spoon have sprinkled soul, R&B, synths, to their sound. Never afraid to embrace pop. Steady and slowly morphing into what is being heard on this record. The record finds the band fully engulfed in blue eyed funk groove that sets them apart from their peers. (WILCO, Old 97s). At times Daniel’s voice sulks, slithers and charms through a cluster of 80s pop arrangements. Jim Eno’s (Spoon’s secret weapon) drums sound tighter than ever and the guitars are never too far behind. So have no fear, Spoon tinker their sound without losing their light. Years of touring and recording have crafted a bond and sound that adds endearing to the music being heard. Hot Thoughts comes from a place of unity. Much like Radiohead, Spoon tap into individual strengths for one bold statement.
The opening track Hot Thoughts perfectly captures the band’s evolution. An instant gem that will be a nice addition to their live set. The track beckons for a festival setting. Funky, catchy, and elusive enough to keep you on your toes. Other standouts include guitar axe picking thumper Shotgun. They show off their playfulness on First Caress by featuring an out of tune piano solo in the middle of the song. It should not work but trust me it does. Spoon have plenty of surprises within that will have long time fans beaming. Lyrically Daniel remains enigmatic as ever and part of the fun of being a Spoon fan is deciphering the meaning of it all. Without a doubt the best track on the record is Pink Up. Haunting, gorgeous and the sexiest thing Spoon have ever delivered. Daniel pulls you in close and whispers “Break off from the everyday and spend a week in the moment.” The song clocks in at nearly 6 minutes and the hypnotic groove will have you wanting more. Pink Up cuts deep and the melody reappears in the closing track US. May you have a lover to hold so you can enjoy. Indulge yours truly for a second. I recently found a partner and I dedicate this track to her.
I worked 116 hours in 8 days. SxSw is a monster. Slaying Grendel took an effort of strain that handicapped my post for Album of the month, March edition. My apologies. Luckily Spoon’s record dropped right around as I was coming off my coffee/5hour binge. As a lifelong fan the record was a reminder to pause, enjoy and dance the night away. Hot Thoughts is a record of the moment. Enjoy the now, the way things are going make tomorrow seem daunting. Spoon are a tremendous live presence. This record is a thrilling way to welcome summer. Spoon is coming to a town near you. Be prepared to dance.
