Spectrum Highs Lows And Heavenly Blows Zip: A Masterpiece of Shoegaze and Experimental Rock
If you are a fan of shoegaze, experimental rock, or psychedelic music, you have probably heard of Spectrum Highs Lows And Heavenly Blows Zip, the third album by the British band Spectrum. Released in 1994, this album is widely considered as one of the most influential and innovative works of the genre, blending elements of noise, drone, ambient, and pop music.
Spectrum Highs Lows And Heavenly Blows Zip
Who is Spectrum?
Spectrum is the solo project of Pete Kember, also known as Sonic Boom, who was a founding member of the legendary band Spacemen 3. After Spacemen 3 disbanded in 1991, Kember continued to explore his musical vision under the name Spectrum, releasing several albums and EPs that showcased his experimental and eclectic style.
What is Highs Lows And Heavenly Blows?
Highs Lows And Heavenly Blows is the third full-length album by Spectrum, and arguably the most acclaimed one. The album consists of nine tracks that range from dreamy pop songs to hypnotic instrumental pieces. The album title refers to the highs and lows of life, as well as the heavenly blows of music and drugs.
Why is Highs Lows And Heavenly Blows important?
Highs Lows And Heavenly Blows is important because it represents a unique and creative approach to music making, combining different genres and influences in a cohesive and original way. The album also showcases Kember's mastery of sound manipulation and production techniques, creating rich and textured sonic landscapes that envelop the listener. The album has been praised by critics and fans alike, and has influenced many artists in the shoegaze, experimental rock, and psychedelic scenes.
What are the highlights of Highs Lows And Heavenly Blows?
Highs Lows And Heavenly Blows is full of memorable and captivating tracks, but some of the most notable ones are:
Undo the Taboo: The opening track of the album, and one of the most pop-oriented songs. It features a catchy melody, a groovy bass line, and a chorus that invites the listener to \"undo the taboo\" and \"do what you want to do\".
How You Satisfy Me: The second track of the album, and one of the most popular ones. It is a fast-paced and energetic song that combines distorted guitars, pulsating drums, and soaring vocals. It is a tribute to Kember's girlfriend at the time, and a celebration of love and sex.
Neon Sigh: The fifth track of the album, and one of the most experimental ones. It is a long and hypnotic instrumental piece that features a drone-like synth, a looping guitar riff, and various sound effects. It creates a mesmerizing and psychedelic atmosphere that transports the listener to another dimension.
When Tomorrow Hits: The ninth and final track of the album, and one of the most emotional ones. It is a cover of a song by Spacemen 3, Kember's former band. It is a slow and melancholic song that reflects on the uncertainty and anxiety of the future. It features a simple piano melody, a haunting guitar solo, and a whispering voice that repeats the phrase \"when tomorrow hits\".
How can I listen to Highs Lows And Heavenly Blows?
If you are interested in listening to Highs Lows And Heavenly Blows, you have several options. You can buy or stream the album online from various platforms, such as Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, or Bandcamp. You can also buy a physical copy of the album on CD or vinyl from online or offline stores. Alternatively, you can download the album as a zip file from various websites that offer free music downloads.
What are some other albums by Spectrum?
If you enjoyed Highs Lows And Heavenly Blows, you might want to check out some other albums by Spectrum. Here are some recommendations:
Soul Kiss (Glide Divine): The first album by Spectrum, released in 1992. It is a collection of songs that Kember recorded during his time with Spacemen 3, as well as some new material. It features a more lo-fi and psychedelic sound than Highs Lows And Heavenly Blows, but still showcases Kember's talent for catchy melodies and sonic experimentation.
Forever Alien: The fourth album by Spectrum, released in 1997. It is a departure from the previous albums, as it incorporates more electronic and synth-based elements. It is influenced by the likes of Kraftwerk, Brian Eno, and Silver Apples, and explores themes of alienation, technology, and spirituality.
Indian Giver: The fifth and latest album by Spectrum, released in 2008. It is a collaboration with Jim Dickinson, a legendary producer and musician who worked with artists such as Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones, and Primal Scream. It is a more organic and bluesy album than the previous ones, featuring live instruments and vocals by Dickinson and his sons.
Conclusion
Spectrum Highs Lows And Heavenly Blows Zip is a masterpiece of shoegaze and experimental rock, and one of the most influential albums of the 90s. It showcases Pete Kember's vision and creativity, as well as his skill for sound manipulation and production. It is an album that deserves to be listened to and appreciated by anyone who loves music that challenges and inspires.
Conclusion
Spectrum Highs Lows And Heavenly Blows Zip is a masterpiece of shoegaze and experimental rock, and one of the most influential albums of the 90s. It showcases Pete Kember's vision and creativity, as well as his skill for sound manipulation and production. It is an album that deserves to be listened to and appreciated by anyone who loves music that challenges and inspires. ba313b4491