Spottiswoode and His Enemies

Spottiswoode & His Enemies release their first song collection since the 2008 double release that marked their tenth anniversary.

Wild Goosechase Expedition is the band’s most shamelessly eclectic recording since their very first eponymous release over a decade ago. It’s a mad scramble of songs that mirrors the madness of life on the road. “It’s our Magical Mystery Tour,” says Spott. “As a bandleader, I often feel like a general leading his troops on one doomed tour after another. This is a surreal trip through a warring world.”

In part an homage to the Beatles, the CD’s remarkable artwork by renowned English painter, Alexander Gorlizki, reflects the retro psychedelic spirit of the band’s latest adventure.

Produced for Old Soul Records by Kenny Siegal (Chris Whitley, Larkin Grimm, Joseph Arthur), the CD opens with the anthemic “Beautiful Monday”, but it gradually becomes darker and stranger. The band, in top form, careens from balls-out rock, novelty blues and haunting balladry to acerbic sometimes tongue-in cheek social commentary – as in the high-octane lament, “All Gone Wrong.” The journey ends with the epic “You Won’t Forget Your Dream” featuring a haunting solo from trumpeter Kevin Cordt followed by a tour-de-force response from Tony Lauria on piano.

The CD also shows off the incredible versatility of lead guitarist, Riley McMahon; soulful and savage saxophone and singing from Candace DeBartolo; and the rock tight rhythm section of John Young on bass and Konrad Meissner (subbing in for Tim Vaill who has since returned to the band) on drums and percussion.