Spiller – “Midwest”

Eugene, Oregon-based quartet Spiller produce a vibrant, brisk sound that blends elements of indie-rock, math-rock, and jazz. Some bands who assemble such a mixture can fall victim to over-involved prog-rock, where musicianship reigns over melody and hooks. Not so with Spiller; they have a firm grasp on songwriting, as well as producing a sound that embraces a studied, eclectic approach with impressive playing. The track shifts seamlessly from more barren moments, like the initial guitar/vocal minimalism, into an explosion of rhythm and soaring vocals, like the pull at the one-minute mark. “Your face still haunts this old home,” the vocals sing during the bridge, leading into a dexterous guitar line that’s not too far removed from The Wrens’ playbook. This is an original, highly imaginative group that shows all of these favorable aspects throughout new track “Midwest”.