Austin indie rockers, Spoon, emerge victorious with their highly anticipated new release, Transference. While considerably more simplistic than anything they’ve done, Transference should be regarded as an important album as it is the first album produced entirely by the band.
Trading in the more layered, multi-instrumental sound fans embraced on their widely sucessful 2007 release, Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga, for a more stripped down approach was a risky choice but one that the band had to make to get closer to the band’s ideal sound. In an interview with the New York Times, frontman Britt Daniels claims Transference to be “the most that we sounded like us yet.”
The first single, and possibly the strongest overall track on the album, “Written In Reverse,” has already been well received by fans and critics alike. But that isn’t the only gem on this album. “Is Love Forever?” is arguably the most catchy song Spoon has done to date. The addition of a ballad will no doubt come as a shock to most. “Goodnight Laura,” compliments Daniel’s strong, yet pure vocals with the simplicity of a single piano.
Other noteworthy songs, “Out Go the Lights,” as the lyrical victory, and “I Saw the Light,” for just being downright catchy.
From start to finish it is evident Spoon is claiming their much earned spot as a leader in the indie rock music scene. Blending the rock sound they’ve almost perfected with a more modern pop sound like other popular indie bands Ok Go or The Stereophonics (both with new releases late 2009 and early this year), Spoon has easily produced one of the most likable albums we’ll see in 2010. Transference, though perhaps not as technically strong as Ga Ga, is sure to be a favorite of long time fans while gaining a steady following of newcomers.
For what it’s worth, I give Transference a 4 out of 5.
