Description
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Indie avant-pop supergroup Spirit Fest have released their fourth album, “Bear In Town,” which showcases the band’s ability to create music despite being physically separated. With group members spread across Europe and recording sessions taking place after a short 2021 European tour, the album’s six songs highlight the diverse character of the transnational quintet. Combining heart-rending pop melodies, melancholic chants, and the beauty of repetition, Spirit Fest’s guitar-driven pop is enhanced with gentle hints of piano and electronic flourishes. Notably, some of these artistic touches were added remotely by Mat Fowler (of Bons and Jam Money) in Britain, while the majority of the music was recorded in a cozy apartment studio in Munich by the other members of the band: Saya and Ueno (from Tenniscoats), Markus Acher (from The Notwist), and Cico Beck (from Joasinho and Aloa Input).
The result, “Bear In Town,” is a concise and powerful album that exudes infectious joy and captures the essence of the band’s spirit. The melodies found within strike a delicate balance between heartfelt emotions and melancholy. Reflecting on the recording process, Acher expressed his satisfaction with the album, stating that it effectively captures the band’s collective musical chemistry during that period. It is worth mentioning that these tracks were primarily recorded live in the studio, with only a few vocal overdubs added later. The profound emotional depth at the core of Spirit Fest’s music is apparent from the very first notes of “Bear In Town.”
The album opens with “Kou-Kou Land,” a song that echoes previous works by Tenniscoats, such as “Baibaba Bimba.” Its intricate composition weaves complexity around a simple and repetitive chant, creating a captivating stop-start structure that builds anticipation. Saya’s lovely and absent-minded hums deliver a simple melody that evokes deep emotional responses. “Lost & Found” revolves around a delightful descending chord change that adds variation to the swaying folk verses, complemented by gorgeous electronic whirrs and soothing winds. Another standout track, “In Our House,” captures a bittersweet sadness, making it one of Spirit Fest’s most emotionally stirring songs.
“Like A Plane” takes a song originally written and recorded by Markus Acher for his solo EP of the same name, released on Morr Music in 2022. While the original version served as a gentle and introspective lament, the rendition on “Bear In Town” possesses a widescreen tenderness, with raindrop-like piano notes framing its melancholic atmosphere. The album concludes with two moments of whimsical splendor: the bossa-inflected “Hill Blo” and the lively title track. Saya’s captivating vocals shine on this album, perfectly capturing a sense of wonder and possibility in the expansive chords of “Bear In Town.” Like the entirety of the album, these tracks are imbued with kindness and adorned with psych-pop grandeur. In troubled times, “Bear In Town” serves as a soothing balm for the soul.
Spirit Fest’s unique blend of indie avant-pop has been greatly influenced by other notable artists, including Bons, Jam Money, Tenniscoats, The Notwist, and Joasinho and Aloa Input. Their collaboration across borders and their dedication to crafting heartfelt melodies has resulted in a remarkable album that showcases their collective talents and showcases their ability to overcome physical barriers to create beautiful music. “Bear In Town” is a testament to the power of music to connect people and provide solace in turbulent times.
