Gnod - Spot Land

 GNOD, the ever-evolving psychedelic musical unit from northern England, returns in 2024 with a refreshed sound and newfound freedom. "Spot Land," their latest release, consists of five tender and detailed tracks that unfold slowly with wistful guitar textures, brushed drums, and interjections of lap steel, piano, and kalimba. Founder member Paddy Shine describes the music as a blend of old and new GNOD. While "Spot Land" departs from the intense, loud sounds of recent albums like 2022's "Hexen Valley," it remains a heady experience with its exploratory nature reminiscent of earlier works such as the 2014 triple LP "Infinity Machines." The album's unique vibe ensures it stands on its own, welcoming both longtime fans and new listeners.

Recorded over four days in a Rochdale mill in August 2023, "Spot Land" marks the first time Paddy Shine has handled all production and mixing duties for a GNOD release. Paddy, the only constant member on all five tracks, is joined by fellow founder Chris Haslam, Alex Macarte, Raikes Parade, and Al Wilson, each playing multiple instruments over the album's 40-minute runtime. The absence of vocal credits is offset by the use of sampled voices, adding a rich texture to the music. Highlights include the serene "Luz Natural," the rhythm-forward "Dream On," and the abstract "Kapal Bhati." The band's jamming and improvisational approach, paired with Paddy's careful editing, result in a cohesive and immersive listening experience. Chris Haslam's illustrative cover artwork complements the music's organic process, mirroring the band's intuitive and fluid creation style.

Rocket Recordings