Blue Plate Special: Spoon

Spoon is an indie rock band from Austin, Texas, that has carved a distinctive niche in the world of alternative music since their formation in 1993. In my opinion, they are one of the most underrated bands in the US. Led by frontman Britt Daniel and drummer Jim Eno, the band’s sound has evolved from their early post-punk and art rock roots into a polished yet edgy blend of rock and roll that continues to push boundaries. Their debut album, Telephono (1996), laid the foundation for their signature style, but it was with their albums Girls Can Tell (2001) and Kill the Moonlight (2002) that they began to garner widespread critical acclaim. Over the years, Spoon has become synonymous with consistently innovative music, offering a fresh take on the rock genre with every release.

The band’s rise to prominence was solidified during their years with Merge Records, where albums like Gimme Fiction (2005) and Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga (2007) not only garnered commercial success but also cemented their status as indie rock stalwarts. Known for their meticulous attention to detail and minimalist approach, Spoon’s sound combines punchy rhythms, hypnotic melodies, and cryptic yet engaging lyrics. As they transitioned to Loma Vista Recordings with They Want My Soul (2014) and later returned to Matador for Hot Thoughts (2017), the band continued to challenge expectations while maintaining a devoted fanbase.

In 2022, Spoon released Lucifer on the Sofa, which was nominated for Best Rock Album at the Grammy Awards, marking a significant milestone in their nearly three-decade-long career. The band’s ability to reinvent themselves while staying true to their core identity has earned them a place as one of the most respected acts in modern rock. With their bold experimentation, Spoon has remained a dynamic force in the industry, consistently pushing the envelope while delivering music that resonates deeply with both critics and fans alike.

Some of my favorites from their extensive catalog:

I Turn My Camera On – from the album Gimme Fiction (2005)

 

Hot Thoughts – from the album Hot Thoughts (2017)

 

Jonathan Fisk – from the album Kill the Moonlight (2002)

 

You Got Yr. Cherry Bomb – from the album Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga (2007)

 

Don’t Buy The Realistic – from the album Telephono (1996)

 

The Way We Get By – from the album Kill the Moonlight (2002)

 

The Underdog – from the album Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga (2007)

 

Car Radio – from the album A Series of Sneaks (1998)

 

Do You – from the album They Want My Soul (2014)

 

Got Nuffin – from the album Transference (2010)

 

Anything You Want – from the album Girls Can Tell (2001)

 

I Summon You – from the album Gimme Fiction (2005)