Combine a pinch of Johnny Cash, a cup of The Pixies, 2 tablespoons of Blondie, and some chopped pieces of U2 in a large bowl until a smooth original sound is formed. The final result should sound like The Duke Spirit's debut effort With Cuts Across the Land . The band doesn't attempt to break new ground; they don't try to create thought provoking lyrics nor do they introduce complex arrangements. Instead, the group sticks to rock 'n roll basics by unleashing cuts with heavy bass drums, and some of the catchiest guitar riffs heard in the last three years. The true strength of the LP, and the band of course, is found in Liela Moss's smooth, unrestrained vocals. The frontwoman attacks each song with ferocious passion yet often filters in angelic tones by the time the chorus hits.
With tracks like "Love is Unfamiliar Name," and "Hello to the Floor," the band displays their eclectic influences by shifting from an upbeat, catchy rock song to an emotional ballad (which features an arrangement that can bring tears to one's eyes). None of the songs on the 15-track debut sound completely alike as the group throws in some surprises, such as a harmonica solo and some synthesizers, to enrich the disparate melodies.
The group has been critically acclaimed for drawing on multiple influences in order to form a rock-based sound that is truly unique while arousing a sense of nostalgia. As good as the album is it doesn't serve to showcase the group's full potential. It seems as though this is only the beginning of what we should expect from TDS. If they make the right moves and progress in the right way, they are a band that is truly destined for greatness. |