Spleen – Dystopic School 7″ (Contempo Records)

Spleen’s debut 7” record, “Dystopic School,” is an exhilarating dive into a sonic universe built upon the finest elements borrowed from punk rock meets grunge, alternative, and indie music. This three-track EP showcases the band’s knack for blending various genres to create a powerful and distinctive sound. From the initial notes and beats, it’s clear that Spleen’s musical talents are boundless. The opening track immediately grabs your attention with its potent blend of heavily distorted guitar riffs and chord progressions. These elements form the backbone of the EP, delivering a colossal slab of well-articulated noise that will captivate even those listeners who are new to these genres. The intricate layers of guitar work are reminiscent of the best years for grunge and punk music, creating a familiar and refreshingly unique sound.

The basslines are equally impressive, offering a warm, audible foundation that binds the guitars and drums together. The bass provides the necessary heaviness, clarity, and depth, ensuring that each track has a solid and cohesive sound. This seamless synergy between the bass and adds an extra layer of richness to the music. The drumming is one of the standout features. Matteo’s performance is nothing short of spectacular, with energetic beats, clever accentuations, surprising breaks, and hectic fills defining the grooves and tempos of each song. His drumming not only drives the energy of the tracks but also keeps everything in line, ensuring that the music never loses its momentum.

Samuele’s vocals are at the center of Spleen’s sound, serving as the guiding force throughout the EP. His voice effortlessly transitions between melodic cleans and powerful shouts, commanding attention and drawing the listener into the music. The seamless balance between low, mid, and high notes adds a touch of complexity to the songs, enhancing their overall impact. The lyrical content of “Dystopic School” is another strong point, offering thought-provoking themes that resonate with the current socio-political climate. The lyrics are delivered with a raw and emotional intensity that complements the music perfectly, making each track a compelling listen from start to finish. Spleen’s “Dystopic School” is an otherworldly sonic experience that is worth revisiting over and over again. The combination of punk, grunge, alternative, and indie elements creates a powerful and captivating sound while each track exemplifies their musical prowess and ability to craft songs that resonate deeply with listeners. Spleen is undoubtedly an outstanding band, and their debut record is a must-have for any music enthusiast. If you haven’t already, grab a copy of this 7” record as soon as possible – you won’t be disappointed.