ALBUM REVIEW: Nausea by Craft Spells

I immediately became a fan of Craft Spell's synth driven album, Idle Labor (2011), reminiscent of new wave and dream pop genres. I've eagerly waited for another full length release and now their sophomore album, Nausea, is finally here.

Unlike their past work, Nausea breaks away from the pervasive echoing guitar riffs that have come to define Craft Spell's sound; and introduces the use of piano and wind instruments. Although I liked the simplicity of the synth and guitar, I also appreciate their experimentation with these instruments. In this case, it is well done and true to their drifty, melancholic sound. As with their first album, Vallestero's soft, sullen voice is at the center of each song. In Nausea the lyrics are far less care free and more focused on the themes of isolation and loneliness. Although many of the songs sound upbeat in nature the lyrics are quite melancholy, such is the case with their song Komorebi, one of my favorites on the album (in addition to If I Could).

I would recommend this album for late summer nights- their twangy guitars setting an upbeat and contemplative mood for the listener. Listen to their track Komorebi, above and let us know your thoughts on the album in the comments section below.

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