The third album released by Pterodactyl, Spills Out bursts aloud with its moody pop to formulate a grandeur feeling of optimism. Its simple methodology for teamed up melodies forms this retro 1950s surfer bop with more familiar tones and rifts from the current era of indie rock. Featuring electric guitar, bass guitar, drums, synthesizer, and even tambourine, the standard template the band holds gives them a concrete sound.

The shifting emotion that takes place throughout this album is what is so striking. With there being a mix of uplifting compositions, with songs like “Nerd” and “Searchers,” makes one reminisce on affectionate and loving feelings. These songs then contrast with one another to showcase anxiety driven tones, as heard in “Allergy Shot” and “Aphasia.” The melding of the two extremes of the emotional spectrum helps coagulate this mature, real life tone into the music. Each song expresses a relatable emotion that helps establish a strong connection with the listener.

The music cascades along smoothly, each song transitioning into the next with ease. Though I do enjoy the band’s sound, it’s the lack of distinction from other bands I’ve heard that makes them not the most incredible band I’ve heard.

The singer/drummer Matt Marlin’s voice is very particular to the band. His tones and sounds are unique, reminding me of Friendly Fires at times, and even John Lennon and Paul McCartney at other times.

The band can get into the best sounds of both sides of the emotion spectrum. When angry, the band can bring the pain with impressive speedy tempo rifts, while at relaxed times the band can shine through with upbeat flare.

Overall, the band takes a lot of trips and turns with accentuating multiple emotions throughout this album, which really shows their depth in creating their sound, and how they really construct music versus just playing it. Though the album seems like a compilation of reused sorts of sounds and composition, nonetheless the album is still great to listen to, and is definitely worth the time to sit down or what have you, and listen to.

8/10

By: Alex Peacock 

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