Category:
Rock

Try if you like:
Broken Social Scene, Death Cab For Cutie, Decemberists, Sea And Cake

I'm surprised at Kevin Drew's decision to use the Broken Social Scene umbrella on his first solo album. But apparently it was their decision to start a new series, each featuring a member of the collective and using most of the Broken Social Scene to create the album. If they all turn out this great then I have absolutely no issue with it. Spirit If... is an amazing album, actually taking off from the last BSS studio album and taking flight on its own. It really is as sonically pleasing as any of their "band" efforts but this time showcasing on Drew's great songwriting. 

"Big Love" shows Kevin and his BSS crew experimenting a little but it never gets out of hand. The use of thick instrumentation is overly apparent here. Best thing is when they throw in some of the in between sounds when they are switching things up in the studio. It really adds to the organic feel of the album.

Some of the songs here showcase Kevin's penchant for harmonies better than others. "Frightening Lives" is one of these great melodic examples and there are many more where this one came from. You could easily use "Aging Faces / Losing Places" as a lullaby with it's lovely gentle orchestration and vocals.

And the campfire-esque rendition of "When It Begins" comes off beautifully.

Even though the "Broken Social Scene Presents" series is only one album in it should be considered a success. Spirit If is an amazing album. If you are a fan of melodic indie rock then make sure you don't miss this one.