Spiders: Shake Electric review

70’s throwback rockers Spiders formed in Gothenburg, Sweden in 2010, quickly releasing their self-titled debut 10’ vinyl EP in 2011, followed by their first full length Flashpoint in 2012. Both received rave reviews from fans and critics alike. The band was started by guitarist John Hoyles and his raven-voiced wife Ann Sofie Hoyles and is rounded out by the stunning rhythm section of bassist Olle Griphammar and drummer Richard Harryson. They have built a strong reputation based on the strength of their live shows and their vintage 70’s rock sound. Their new album via Spinefarm Records- Shake Electric is no exception, further expounding on that foundation. Even the production sounds as if the album was recorded in the 1970’s. Opener “Mad Dog” follows the familiar template of other throwback bands like Wolfmother. While tracks like “Back On The Streets” and lead single and video “Shake Electric” feature sultry vocals akin to Ann Wilson and could have been on any of the early Heart albums. “Bleeding Heart” and “Hard Times” showcase vocal performances similar to the late, great Janis Joplin and some tasty cowbell. Elsewhere, “Only Your Skin” and “Control” are stripped down, back to basics Rock N Roll, driven by non-stop, pounding kick drum and dripping with old school punk attitude, while “Lonely Nights” sounds like Stevie Nicks singing for Thin Lizzy. Here’s the bottom line- If you ever liked the female fronted bands of the 70’s, then Shake Electric is absolutely essential listening. Rating: 8 out of 10. -Eric Hunker