CD - Neptune - The Duke Spirit
8:59pm Sunday 16th March 2008
UK rockers The Duke Spirit follow up 2005's Cuts Across The Land with their second album, Neptune.
Having spent much of 2007 finding themselves in America they return and, with the help of producer Chris Goss (Queens Of The Stone Age, Soulwax), release a record full of growth and variety.
Instantly the new album sounds like British Sea Power crossed with Arcade Fire - seductive and passionate mixed with upbeat and heavy.
Liela Moss' soulful vocals deliver poetic lyrics that at times sound very similar to Bjork but somehow manage to sit alongside screeching guitars very well.
Stand out tracks include This Ship was Built to Last, Neptune and the single The Step and the Walk, all of which give a good indication of what this female-fronted band is about.
Not known for having simple, easy to listen to, three-minute songs, Neptune proves this.
The album starts off slow but it builds nicely and by the end it definitely leaves you wanting more.
Those new to The Duke Spirit may need to give the album a few listens but it will be worth it.
BR