Introduction
Bristol based band Spin Class are back with their 2nd EP “Dinner At Derek’s”. The EP combines prog-rock riffs with explosive vocals wrapped up in a grunge-like fortune cookie!
Review
Dinner At Derek’s
If you’ve seen any of my earlier reviews, then you will know I’m not a fan of intro tracks; I find them unnecessary. In this case it is just background noise, that makes me think, wouldn’t it be better to jump straight into the EP?
Bagel Bagel Bagel
The intensity that this song starts with just backs up those feelings; I wish the EP had kicked off with this track. The vocal gymnastics certainly keep the listeners fully on their toes! Yet, the dart around here and there, creates a sensation of multiple songs in one. Is this too experimental?
Nonetheless, I appreciate the overall pace of the track. The best part of a bagel for me is always missing …the centre. The middle here is a catchy hook in the chorus or a riff that makes you crave more.
Calamari Canteen
There’s that riff and it’s incredible! Both substantial and satisfies my cravings. The vocal effects at the beginning of the track are also intriguing. Overall, this song feels more like a guided journey with a delightful grunge edge that I appreciate.
The high notes are so impressive that even the best singers in the world would envy them! Bass and drums towards the end of the track are excellently executed, and this combination is definitely something the band should explore more.
Mr Toy’s Flying Wok Noodle Bar
This feels significantly lighter compared to the last song, with some intricate guitar work! To me, it has a much more prog like vibe than the previous songs. Midway through, the blend of drums and vocals stand out as one of the highlights, not just of this song but of the entire EP.
Finishing this track, the guitar switch is not just justified but almost essential, providing a real punch and added depth—similar to soy sauce in a stir fry!
Cake
The vocals here immediately grab your attention. However, the tempo of the vocals fluctuates, which can be somewhat unsettling at times. Nevertheless, it is the most catchy track on the entire EP.
“I wanna go wherever you go.”
The instruments not only support the vocals but also enhance every element of the performance. Sometimes, you really can have your cake and eat it!
Final Thoughts
The intro track and first song probably don’t do enough for me, the end three songs however more than make up for them. Perhaps if the ordering of the songs had been different this EP would have scored higher.
With excellent vocals and instrument performances, the only thing that really lets it down at times is the lack of direction, but perhaps that is the experimental side of prog coming in. With that being said though this is a really solid EP, with hilarious names for songs and a tasty little morsal that everyone should try!
I’m greedy so I know I’m going back for seconds!
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