IN THE early 1990s, a certain Seattle trio broke into the mainstream with one of the most recognised and influential albums of all time.
It’s nice to see that - 20 years later - its influence hasn’t died.
The Temple at the Centre of Time is 32 minutes of modern British grunge, spliced together with nods to retro rock.
Production may not be as polished as other records in the genre, but it reflects an authenticity that has been missing in recent years.
Slow-burning numbers are balanced by high-energy, swaggering rock and roll such as Werewolf - a lengthy slice of blistering riffs and contained aggression.
Mr Spoon’s softer side can be seen on Sam’s Mother, Shadow, and acoustic gem Crisis Loan, where simple harmonies intertwine with introverted and passionate lyrics.
And stand-out track The Calling comes across as a bar fight between Irish rock heroes Therapy and disjointed and deranged Americans The Melvins.
The Temple at the Centre of Time confirms Mr Spoon's potential as real contenders in the grunge arena... more fresh noise like this in the future please boys!
DAVE BURTON
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