Spinto Band : Nice and Nicely Done

Aside from the fact that it is the city where JC Penny sends all of its damaged merchandise, Wilmington, Delaware has a new reason to stick out on the map thanks to The Spinto Band. Having released the hidden treasure in indie-pop in 2005, this septet has a unique style of it’s own that is peppy and refreshing. While being formed almost a decade ago, going back to some of the member’s middle school days, the sound of the Spinto Band goes beyond labeling. They showcase a spunky stride while their instrumentation amalgamates along well with the peachy dexterity that is displayed in the lead vocals of Thomas Hughes and Nick Krill.

The Spinto Band can go into any mode they desire with their versatile song craftsmanship. They manage to merge a twee-pop sparkle with some post-punk finesse on cheeky nuggets like “Did I Tell You” as they break out the kazoo for the jangling quirkiness on display in “Brown Boxes.” Nowadays even Rivers Cuomo couldn’t write a song this catchy. Asses will for sure be shaking to the tender dance groove and Franz Ferdinand-like sashaying pulse of “Crack the Whip.”

Notions of adolescent love are abound on the alluring serenade of “Oh Mandy” that has a glimmer to it which makes it stand out as one if the most resplendent tracks on the album. “Trust vs Mistrust” has the members cooing with a twittering falsetto pattern that will remain playing in your head long after the song is over. In a nutshell it’s kind of like Maximo Park meets The Shins.

The Nice and Nicely Done even has a sunshine pop face to it with the soft and creamy flow alongside the wiry synth squelches in “Spy vs. Spy.” The playfully weird characteristics of the Flaming Lips come to mind with “Direct to the Helmet” which I like to call “Yoshimi Battles the Spinto Band.” With “Direct to the Helmet,” a sugary vocal precision is evident as the “ahhhhh’s” drizzle down in a fashion that Brian Wilson would give his own stamp of approval. Having some of the old XTC albums in my record collection had me relishing in the clanking skiffle of “So Kind, Stacey” and be sure not to miss the malt shop, power pop trot in “Mountains.”

The Nice and Nicely Done is a CD that remains true to its album title. It displays a youthful charisma with a band that brandishes good chemistry amongst all of its members whether on a studio recording or at their energetic live shows. Having already earned a spot on my top ten list for the year, The Nice and Nicely Done is a remarkable stepping stone for a successful future of this up-and-coming young band that will most certainly create a ripple effect in the indie world.

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Clap your Hands Say Yeah – Clap Your Hands Say Yeah
Hot Hot Heat – Elevator
The Apples in Stereo – Fun Trick Noisemaker