Spendo has found a brilliant way to mix the classic rock of old with a modern sound. The group from Vancouver makes incredible music that will stick with you. They aim for a 1970s California vibe, and they have accomplished that goal.
The foursome includes Spencer Tomlinson (lead vocals/guitar), Bradley Lambert (lead guitar/vocals), Trevor Crane (drums/vocals), and Kyle Stegen (bass/vocals).
Waiting for Years… was their first release. It came out in 2018 and it’s such a good album. It only has seven songs, but each one is great in its own way. Listen to this album, you’ll be blown away by its consistency. The seven songs are “Want You,” “Alone,” “The Messenger,” “Bleeding Hearts Dry,” “Losing Sleep,” “No Rules,” and “Mr. Tied Down.” I don’t think I could possibly pick a favorite from this one. It’s stacked from top to bottom. It proves a thought I’ve always had. If you have seven great songs, then just put out those seven songs. Rather than diluting it with filler, they created a powerful first release that makes a statement.
The pandemic put a halt on their 2020 tour, so they took that time to go into the studio and concentrate on their next album.
That album, called The Great Unknown, came out earlier this year and is the perfect follow-up to their awesome first release. It was preceded by singles “Fighter,” “Easy to Lie,” and “Gone & Glad.” This one also has seven songs like the previous one, and once again, it’s the perfect number of songs. This album tells a story and takes you on a journey.
“Intro” sets the tempo for the album, then “The Great Unknown” builds up nicely to lead into one of my favorites, “Fighter.” “Give It a Try” slows the tempo down into “Easy to Lie,” and “Gone & Glad” is just awesome. The album ends with “1975” and it leaves it on a high note.
I don’t think I could pick which album I prefer. Literally every song that Spendo has released is a banger. Go out of your way to listen to both albums.
If you want to see Spendo live, they’ll be in Kamloops this Friday (May 19) at the Effie Arts Collective. They’ll also be in Delta on May 20th in Delta at the Delta Collective. For both shows, The Vidos will be opening for them. Get your tickets now to see Spendo before they blow up. I think it’s just a matter of time.
If you can’t make either show, then tune into Evolution 107.9 to hear some of Spendo’s latest work, like “Gone & Glad.”
You’ll be glad you did.