Originality is a hard concept to grasp, especially where music is concerned. Whether it’s possible for a band to be completely unique these days is a debate worthy of discussion, as almost all songs, albums and musical concepts produced in this modern age is inspired, influenced or copied from bands and musicians past and present. However, Spectrum 7 has managed to accomplish more than most in the originality stakes with their second E.P. ‘This is not a conflict‘.
Let me explain myself. It’s not as if this band has sat down and consciously decided to try and distance themselves from any music scene or genre, not by a long shot. There’s more than just a subtle hint of Radiohead, Smashing Pumpkins and Minus the Bear present in this short 4-track record, as well as a strong 80’s electro feel to their songs. However, when compared to almost any other band currently putting out records, their blend of a stupidly vast amount of musical influences sets them apart from the crowd, in the sense that no other act around are the minute sounds like these three lads from Surrey do.
The title track is an instrumental introduction, largely based on electronic drums and synthesised loops that act as a subtle build up to the first real track, ‘Everyone knows (but you)’. They really have utilised a unique mixture of textures here to introduce themselves, and with great effect. When the guitars eventually do kick in, just under a minute into track two, it’s clear to see that these guys haven’t followed the standard rock song template of verse, chorus, verse, breakdown. Their riffs are still largely loop based, which at times may come across as repetitive, and progression in the songs is created through layering more instruments, as opposed to complex musical ideas. In some people’s eyes this may come across as lazy musicianship, but I strongly believe it’s a gutsy approach to going against the industry’s expectations of how a song should sound.
The most notable aspect of this E.P is the superb production. The guitars are punchy, the synthesised drums blend in beautifully with the rest of the instruments, and Sean Shreeve’s vocals are deliciously smooth. When you consider a band of just three guys in their early twenties has produced such a massive sounding record with so much depth, you begin to appreciate the talent that Spectrum 7 have. ‘The innocent’ proves to be a great track to end on, tying up the E.P. into a neat finish. Contrasting between crunchy guitar choruses and a synth-based verse, it pulls together all the ideas this band have utilised into one four-minute masterpiece. These guys are not going to be to everyone’s taste, especially when considering the average Punktastic reader, but I personally am looking forward to a full-length from these guys with great expectations.
Andy R