Spartakiev – Ignite

Spartakiev – Ignite
Self released – 2012
Rock, Stoner
Rated: ****

With a new vocalist in its midst and a coming change on bass there is much movement surrounding Dutch foursome Spartakiev. But they still managed to find the time and the energy to release a second recording. On their sophomore release Ignite they let go of most of their jazzy influences and seem to focus on melodic rock with the heavy undertone. We still hear some of their progressive structuring and seventies groove; but most of that has been exchanged for gentle stoner, high desert atmospheres and a bit of psychedelic blues. The biggest difference however is definitely found in the new voice. Where the old singer had a bit of a squeaky whisper thing going on; Wessel Vonk has a clean, rounded and agreeable tongue. It does change the feel of the band considerably. The first self-titled EP felt like a gritty and raw band on the move; Ignite feels like a congenial quartet that has arrived at its destination. A romantic city of sound you’ve visit many times before but for some reason never full explored; and now you do…

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