ninehertz

Spider Kitten have been at this for too long now to care about what any expectations are of them when it is time to record a new album, a confidence based on experience and moreover, a back catalogue that demands respect and has consistently challenged assumptions over their style.

So when a new album does arrive, there’s an added excitement of the unknown – will they have retained their western country twang that has appeared before? (no); Will it be a return to their purer stoner rock sound of their early days that forever followed them? (not really); Will it be as eclectic as their last record (The Truth is Caustic to Love) stylistically? (not quite)

There is something of a gritty stoner rock common theme running the length of the album, but it never really holds tight to it, and there’s the unusual 20 minute track at the end towering into view as you work your way towards it. Early on there are strange signatures and quirky moves which could be an ode to the original Californian desert bands like earthlings? and Fatso Jetson, with a healthy dose of Masters of Reality slugged down. This might feel odd in other band’s hands, but Spider Kitten make it work completely.

The Calver is all bluesy drawls in doom shawls, a reminder of the grand utterings of Uncle Woe, a touch of Dax Riggs’ melancholic blues here too, whilst Fast Queen lives up to its name as a motorbike snarl signals a charge through stoner-speedpunk acceleration that is gloriously gritty. The epic title track closer has slacker blues of a Lanegan style, before turning unusually atmospheric, from within which you find rich outpourings of voice and instrument in a warm and inviting manner.

Spider Kitten have found gold once more, by being only themselves and seeing where that takes them. It is a joy to be able to follow that path.