EP REVIEW: Working Memory – Sun Spot

SUN SPOT deliver a concoction of indie, electronica and post-punk all wrapped up in their brand-new EP Working Memory. Hailing from Bristol, the band recently signed to Venn Records and are ready to release this record to show us exactly what they’re capable of.

First track Loading basically hammers home the point that SUN SPOT are not like every other band, with heavy electronics and voice modifications combining with light stringed instruments to show how they can blend the two and still come out with something good. This track just seems to work as an intro to the EP and it lets you know what the band are all about.

This then leads into Keepsake which has more of an indie feel to it with a funky guitar line and dance rhythms. The vocals are low and restrained so it doesn’t feel too hectic and chaotic. It’s a personal song and the fact it’s so personal works well with the lower more serious vocal tone whilst the instrumentation keeps it fun and bouncy. Dead In the Water is a bit more mainstream but that’s not to take away from the track. It’s still a more laid-back track and it’s got a simplistic less is more feel to it, at least until the chorus kicks in which feels thick as the whole electronic vibe makes a return. This track features ADORING and this addition really changes things up and compliments the band well with lower smokey vocals.

Shiver switches things up again as it features mainly acoustic guitar lines and what sounds like electronic drums so it’s not too much of a departure. The song opens up in the chorus and creates a fuzzy kind of dream-like texture. Moving onto Extinction Bell the vocals are little clearer on this track which is nice seeing as they’ve been modified mostly up to this point, which is certainly not a bad thing but this just makes a change. This one has more of a driven feel with the drum lines which are paired cleverly with the guitar riffs.

Ending on Panic Room, this track features mostly electro synths and has more of punky vibe with the bass that has not featured all that much until now. The acoustic guitar pairs well once again with the synths to give SUN SPOT their signature sound. However, they do employ a section of squealing guitars which gives the track an edge that felt like it was missing and they’ve somehow filled that gap. It’s a great addition and a great way to end the EP.

What SUN SPOT have here is an EP for the fans. It’s got their distinct distorted pop sound to it and whilst that may alienate some new listeners it is sure to please many others, especially anyone who is already on board with their unique style.

Rating 7/10

Working Memory is set for release on May 12th via Venn Records.

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