2020 was beyond difficult for people and families. Among the many hard hit groups were musicians especially those that earn a living by playing live shows. One of the inventive ways these artists have been able to keep the music alive is with social distancing shows which give fans the chance to dance the night away with a sense of safety and community. The band Spafford was able to record one of those shows and released it as “Live at the Drive-in”. This epic album spanning 12 songs and over two and a half hours of music is a living representation of the classic showbiz ethos “The show must go on”.
The album is a stellar recording featuring top notch musicianship and a plethora of genre melting songs and extended jams. Featuring the over the top guitar playing that is a staple of the jam band sound Spafford also manages to infuse their songs with heartfelt lyrics and vocals. “Be Strange” is a great example of how Spafford manages to bring the elements of jam to a place of soulful transcendence. “The Salamander Song” gives the listener an island vibe tune featuring the ultimate vocalization sing along that is always a standout moment at live concerts, when the audience and band become one.
Spafford provides epic songs that take the listener across vast landscapes culminating in hill climbing lead guitar and keyboard solos. “The Postman” is one such adventure that treks across music styles with interplay of light and dark that keeps this 20 + minute jam feeling fresh and exciting as it unfolds. The Spaffod style is reminiscent of early Phish (jazzy/calypso/screaming guitar) and builds on that archetype into something unique and fresh. This album offers a remarkable show and provides a bright spotlight in the surrounding year of struggle for musicians and music lovers. Long live Spafford!
LISTEN NOW: SPOTIFY Spafford.net