Album Review: Spector – Moth Boys
2 min read
London indie rock outfit Spector are back with album number two, but boy did they leave an impression with their debut album Enjoy It While It Lasts this time three years ago; it peaked at #12 in the UK Albums Chart and reached #1 on the Official Record Store Chart in its very first week, so it’s something to write home about. The media have even drawn comparisons to various other artists like The Strokes, The Killers and even Kanye West, Spector have obviously got their own unique style going for them, let’s see if their anticipated follow-up Moth Boys carries their torch.
The answer is yes, the burdened All The Sad Young Men is packed with emotions lyrically and sonically, its thumping beat combined with its relatable theme makes it an instant favourite. The more warm and fuzzy Stay High lifts up the spirits with its kicking atmosphere, whilst Believe has enough synths playing along with an airy atmosphere to pass for a nod to the 80s. Taking a turn for some oddity, Don’t Make Me Try has a melody and an arrangement that if you heard them separately you wouldn’t think they’d mesh, but the group make both subtleties work. Even more intriguing is the edgy Cocktail Party/Heads Interlude with its busy arrangement, and Bad Boyfriend is the group’s attempt at a heart wrenching rock ballad and was an easier number to grow attached to.
Haven’t had your rock fancies tickled yet? The electric Decade Of Decay has everything you need with its energetic vibe, which soon gives way for the more smooth and breathy Kyoto Garden; the album proves to be diverse with different sounds and tantalising melodies, making it an appealing listen. West End has a fun keyboard arrangement that plays in the background, lyrically acknowledging what could have happened if everything had panned out differently, another memorable track. The minimal introduction to Using really sets the tone and eases you into giving it your complete attention, soon enough it breaks away from the quiet and becomes fuller. Lastly, the synths return for one final hurrah with closing track Lately It’s You and it doesn’t finish the album on a disappointing note, but is the most eerie track on offer.
Spector have rolled out the killers (not fillers) with Moth Boys, they have shaped their own sound and continued to run with it, this is definitely a follow up to look back on with pride. With a handful of albums it can become quite easy to get bored after a few tracks in, but Spector have made this album diverse and intriguing enough to reel you in from start to finish. You’ll enjoy the synths, the relatable lyrics and the exotic melodies; simply put, you’ll enjoy Spector’s sophomore effort, Moth Boys is a delight.
