It’s incredible how the sound of stereotypical, groovy rock can easily be revived and elevated like bands such as Smoke Spider, more so on their record “Voodoo Spell”. It’s clear they know exactly what they’re doing, because the energy and the vibe every song emits just doesn’t falter from the first to the tenth track.
Just from the first listen, there’s already instances in mind of any of these songs playing during a film while introducing a villain, or amidst a high-speed chase or high pressure situation, or right after a huge reveal and just before the credits roll. In other words, it is a great and iconic record that can already be seen in any situation, proving its relatability, likeability, and overall relevance. And, if you catch the drift, this album might just be the perfect soundtrack for infamous characters such as Wednesday Addams or her whole family for instance.
But anyway, the point is, “Voodoo Spell” has a lot of potential; more so, familiar, which would probably pull long-time rock fans in if they ever choose to lend their ears. With songs like “Supersonic Life”, “Nervous”, and “East Berlin – Remastered”, a good time is very much guaranteed. Maybe a few headbang moments here and there, making it perfect for productivity or putting a cherry on top of a spooky ambience. It’s as though every single track has its own ear-catching adlib or melody that will leave you intrigued.
There’s something about “Spider Eyes” and “Evil Eye” that are mind-altering; it feels as though these are the culminating tracks of the whole album. Though the initial track “Under a Curse” sets the tone perfectly and on-brand with the band’s whole aesthetic, something about those two songs just make you resonate with what the album wishes to convey. Without them, there wouldn’t be a finger-snapping moment wherein you just deem every track to make sense.
Also, not sure if this is just the time of year talking, but “Desolation – Remastered” would make such a good Halloween song—nay, anthem. Generally speaking, this album on rewind during a Halloween party would leave no room for complaints, because again, it would just make sense. It is the way everything comes together perfectly and no track strays too far from another, not to say it’s all too similar, because take “The Biggest Love” for example. Tamer than its neighbor tracks, yet gives off the same aura. It’s the kind of song people would perform over dinner at a restaurant.
Consistent, dark, and right on point. For those who grew up with rock, there is no other way to describe this record. It may remind them of their favorite bands, for instance, “Linger In My Memory” makes the thought of Green Day’s song about remembering faces and forgetting names resurface in mind. Though, props to Smoke Spider, because it is a great track nevertheless. A reminder of a different band doesn’t take away the credit and the creativity put into these songs – it just means the potential is incredibly high for the songs they put out.
To be honest, “Voodoo Spell” is not that far off from a concept album, the type of record people would make stories or theories about. The type of record that would intrigue producers, eventually turning it into a musical or taking it to broadway. If you are looking for something familiar yet new, similar yet different from your favorite genre, give this record a shot. Because imagine listening to this blindly, thinking it’s just another song from your favorite rock legends – nope, it’s Smoke Spider, and they deserve all the recognition they can get!
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About the Author
Kate Clarice Lee is a psychology major in Ateneo de Naga University with a knack for music and writing. She takes interest in playing guitar, poetry, creative writing, and lyrics that—subjectively—hit close to home. Kate mostly enjoys indie, alternative, pop & punk rock music.
