SPOON – LUCIFER ON THE SOFA – ALBUM REVIEW

Short Bites

2022-03-24

SPOON – LUCIFER ON THE SOFA – ALBUM REVIEW

Photo Credit / Oliver Halfin

The ever popular Spoon recently released their tenth studio album entitled Lucifer On The Sofa (Matador Records). The record is their most adventurous and rock infused to date. It’s full of exotic flows and beautifully textured arrangements. Spoon adds dynamic slices of raw energy to deliver an unprecedented masterpiece.The band’s last recording, Hot Thoughts yielded several huge hits including “Hot Thoughts” and “Can I Sit Next to You”. And to the delight of their Ct. fans, they will be performing live on April 8th at College Street Music Hall in New Haven.

Spoon was formed in 1993 in Austin, Texas by lead singer and guitarist Britt Daniel and drummer Jim Eno. The remainder of the group consists of Alex Fischel (Keyboards/Guitar), Gerardo Larios (Guitar/Keyboards) and Ben Trokan (Bass/Keyboards). Spoon‘s music defies categorization. The band insanely combines diverse elements of pop, funk, jazz and indie and then mixes the concoction in a large psychedelic bowl in order to create a musical elixir of pure enchantment.

Lucifer On The Sofa opens with the funkified “Held”. The tempo starts with a laid back feel but eventually Spoon injects experimental flourishes of sonic intensity. The intoxicating interludes are extremely interesting. Daniel’s vocals remind me of John McCrea of Cake and they fit perfectly. The up front guitar and shimmering synths give the tune a brilliantly divine groove. The track is truly hypnotic. Up next is the first single off the album, “The Hardest Cut”. The upbeat tune has a fluorescent rock vibe. The cadence is stellar. Eno’s drums and Trokan’s bass push a driving tempo. The resolute guitar delivers a brazen performance. The song is a powerhouse.

“The Devil & Mr. Jones” continues the aural romp. The song astounds with sharp guitars and crisp vocals.The track is full of dreamy musical embellishments and surprises. “Wild” is by far my favorite tune on the record. Here, Spoon discharges cascading layers of delectable ear candy. “Wild” is a spectacular number that offers an imposing character and harmonic depth. “My Babe” has a bluesy Stones quality and Daniel’s vocals import an intrepid and emotive allure. “Feels Alright” has a forceful aura with a melodic backdrop. The guitar surrenders extraordinary riffs full of inspiring fervency. The effervescent “On The Radio” follows. It contains an infectious timbre and an audacious tone.

On “Astral Jacket”, Spoon slows down. The heartfelt ballad has a silky lushness to it. The glittery synths steal the show. “Satellite” is captivating with a subdued force. Daniel’s voice has a stirring intonation with a glistening essence. “Lucifer On The Sofa” ends the album. It’s the ideal finish. Lucifer On The Sofa is a brilliant album and it channels a bold new direction for Spoon.

Spoon will be bringing their “Lucifer On The Sofa” tour to town on April 8th at College Street. Don’t miss them. It’s going to be a killer of a show.

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