slow spirit - traverse bay

Slow Spirit

Traverse Bay
self-released; 2013

4.2 out of 5

By Ethan Skeleton

A bunch of Canadian roommates sit at the wheel of what could be some of the best mood music to come from that side of the border.  The songs all feel cohesive and rooted in a mutual respect that stems from the friendship of the musicians involved. We’re talking sound booth bedrooms, snaking cables around furniture – it’s cabin retreat meets studio ethics. All in the name of celebrating bonds and a friend’s departure for further education gives us Traverse Bay EP  by Slow Spirit.

“Raincloud” paints a very atmospheric scene in the beginning; the sounds are jungle in nature with subtle drop sounds acting as percussive abstraction. It eventually blooms into a common time signature seeping   Latin vibe as well as indie dance traits.

The keys pounce on the chords in “Extension” and establish a foundation for the chorus while the rest of the song is free to interpret the groove and counterpoint however it sees fit. The tone is subdued like looking through a rainy morning window. The main progression sounds like Brother’s “System,” which is a fantastic hybrid R&B pop track. Slow Spirit seems to fit that bill just fine.

Sweeping and calm,  “Apostrophe” delivers focused vocals until about three minutes in when the band draws the attention and explores in a more heavy sense for the remaining duration. Traverse Bay EP represents a retreat of musical development and brotherhood with elements sincere, original, provoking and lush. Slow Spirit craft lucid soundscapes and balanced moods that send listeners into a sedated bliss.

This is stationary music meant for a sinking sofa and a good sound system. Or maybe a short ride into the moonlit woods. It’s about taking in reality and reforming your thoughts around the surface of consciousness. This music requires more than words for explanation and I ask that you take the time to see just what I mean. Your ears will thank you.

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