Spencer Needham - Poor Communication - EP

​Spencer Needham

​Poor Communication - EP
self-released; 2016

3.4 out of 5

By Ted Rogen

Spencer Needham is a college student/artist who has been spending some of his free time making music. He released Poor Communication which is a short EP of songs that build a bit of  a foundation he can build from later.

​One of the songs is a Mac Demarco cover and the other three are instrumentals. He opens with “Black Eye” which is a pleasant tune that seems about right for a lounge setting. He strums clean cords and the general vibe is smooth, making plenty of room for vacuous conversation over drinks. The song is pleasant, easy to enjoy but not exactly memorable. Solid mood music. 

Up next is “Ode to Viceroy” which is performed similarly to the original. I always preferred covers that reinvented the song but Needham seems more determined to replicate the original more than anything else. Either way he does perform the song well even thought I would have preferred to hear his vocals more in the mix. 

“Sad Creatures” was a highlight. The initial riff reminded me of Mogwai and the song contains some solid guitar picking which has a very indie rock feel. I would have preferred some vocals along the way but they never came. Luckily the song still picks up traction and has some inspired moments. He closes with “Thrashy Trash” which has a retro feel. There are some classic punk moves in this song. It's another well put together song but I couldn't help but feel the vocals were missing. 

​Poor Communication feels like an appetizer and showcases some potential. The song are short and I would like to hear some of his ideas more fleshed out on future releases.

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