Teaspoon: 'My UK Survival'

‘My UK Survival’ is a very pleasant listen, if a little rooted in its own gentle subtlety. It is surprising that 26 year old musician Teaspoon is based in Colne, Lancashire, as his music appears to span several continents. His debut effort is extremely versatile in hosting some very talented musicians who are given wide creative births to solo through his elegiac tender vocals and acoustic guitar playing. ‘Life’s A Beach’ is a particular example of fine musicianship and warm songwriting, as it incorporates a funky uplifting keys solo from album contributor Nick Clegg.

Teaspoon’s folksy left of centre vibe makes for particular easy and chilled listening as the album transgresses through a steady and progressive catalogue of songs. A particular favourite is track ‘Petard’, where Teaspoon appears to ruminate on the pitfalls of media celebrity and the fixing of identity - “I’m not as strange as the papers say, but we’re not that far away”. ‘Weary Bones’ is evocative of The Smith’s guitar work and it is no surprise to see that Teaspoon lists Morrissey amongst Crowded House has some of his main influences.

Conclusively, last track ‘Hooked’ leaves a haunting edge to the album as Teaspoon describes the desperate addictions of society. In ‘My UK Survival’ Teaspoon has certainly created a record that warrants particular attention to his lyrical pronouncements, touching on contemporary culture and his own intrinsic feelings the record certainly leaves the door wide open for a welcome return.

myspace.com/thefriendlytspoon

Written by William Peach.