Spirit If...

it just does so much right...
the abstract lyrics, the transition from track to track...

a euphoric plunge into my minds eye.

Like most people who may stumble across this record, it occurred completely out of my love for Broken Social Scene and their two latest sonic masterpieces, "You Forgot It In People" and the self titled follow up. My expectations were not quite so high for this record, and seeing as how the whole BSS cast played here without it actually being a BSS release, I was unsure of what to expect.

If it is that quintessential BSS sound that you are thirsting for than you will find it on this record. Much like the supergroup's other work there is always an ecletic swell of voices and instruments, consistently anchored to that pounding backbeat that propels the music forward without rushing it. This record differs however in that there is not so much variance from song song. You will find Drew singing lead on every track, and for the most part an almost hushed and restrained feel prevails throughout the disc. The melodies are not as consistently strong as on the BSS records either.

This being said however, it is a very personal and poignant album lyrically, which is given weight by the hushed intimate feel. Some truly beautiful moments can be found on tracks like "Safety Bricks", "Broke Me Up", "Aging Faces/Losing Places", and "Bodhi Sappi Weekend". "Farewell to the Pressure Kids" kicks the record off with what proves to be the most bombastic two minutes of the record, and then ending with the same melody played in the calmer style. It is as if this track serves as a transition, introducing us to the mood of the rest of the album. J Macsis makes a fun appearrance on guitar in "Backed Out In The.." which any Dinosaur Jr. fans will probably get a kick out of. The disc ends with the folksy "When It Begins", which closes things off nicely as Drew jauntily sings "Its gonna be really hard when we get to the end, but don't forget what you've found.."

All in all, not the masterpeice that the last two BSS releases were, but a great album which will only sweeten with every listen.

Broken Social Scene has been one of my favorite bands since I discovered them about 5 years ago. This album, even though it is technically one member of the band's solo effort, still represents everything I love about them.

If you like Broken Social Scene, buy this record. It's like having another album from the full band, especially since Drew incorporates a lot of them into many of the songs as guests.

The delivery was quick. I had purchased this for a family member and it was well package.

I can't quit listening! Mesmerizing! I bought this over the holidays on one of my ITunes spending sprees and I am so fascinated. I chose this because of listening to a few samples and I am obsessed, obsessed I tell ya. "Lucky Ones" and "What Ya Gonna Be" are my favorites.