Delta Spirit - Delta Spirit

Delta Spirit’s newest self titled album is catchy and creative, but a third step in the wrong direction. Released last Spring, “Delta Spirit” has taken yet another leap away from the masterpiece of their first recording venture, “Ode to Sunshine.” That album’s down-to-earth simpleness, a “What do we have to lose?” compilation of folk-rock guitar riffs sliding under lyrics revealing the band’s story of comedy, love, and despair seems to have been forgotten in a plea for mainstream appeal. 

Following the direction of their second album, “History from Below,” “Delta Spirit” is edgy and louder; more mathematical and heavily produced. Where “Ode to Sunshine” could have been recorded live in a day, “Delta Spirit” sounds pieced together meticulously over weeks. 

And that definitely comes with its up-sides. The first track, “Empty House” is a powerful entrance to the album. Climbing in volume, the guitar’s repeated melody comes into focus, then switches to a new key with absolute precision. The timing is perfect; easy on the ears. 

But for every gratifying harmony, there’s a loss of timelessness. A loss of their unique, genre-altering sound. 

“California” is another embrace of technology, its synthesized chords reverberating over what sounds like computerized drumming. It screams for a wider audience, pulling in listeners with pop melodies and simple, danceable rhythms. 

In an attempt to retain subtleties in their music, “Time Bomb” is a slowed down ballad, with space for creative additions. And yet it sounds forced: the quiet guitar riffs lack inspiration, the song’s drop off and reentrance too easily anticipated. 

Even with fallbacks, the album’s still a gem for alternative rock fans. That’s thanks in large part to “Money Saves,” easily the best song in the set. It’s up-beat, but not overly so. Melodic, but still complicated. And lead singer Matt Vasquez’s vocal pairing with an unusually bright and captivating guitar line makes for an excellent chorus and bridge. 

Thankfully, Delta Spirit again relayed their mastery of nuance.

Speaking of interesting guitar lines, “Otherside” provides a memorable and fantastic bridge, one sure to be replayed in your head later. And it’s a welcome return to the gritty live-performance feel that the album needs more of. 

Other songs worth listening to include “Idaho,” “Tear It Up,” and “Tellin’ the Mind.” 

Delta Spirit has once again cranked out an album worth listening to. Unfortunately, they may have peaked long ago, but even as they recede towards mainstream pop-rock, “Delta Spirit” remains high-quality. 

And that’s due to this little-known band being great at what they do. They can afford to slip a little and produce excellence. 

Overall I’d give this album a 7/10. Though their past gives me conflicting opinions, their newest product is instantly captivating.