6/10

While the band have never made much of an impact in the UK, in their native US, Spoon are seen as one of the quintessential indie warhorses, forever marching forward and cultivating the adventurous sound of today. And after eight studio albums that have ranged from impressive to mediocre, they return with full-length number nine 'Hot Thoughts', a record that from the start shows the band embarking on a personal self-discovery.

Fans of the group will know that they largely operate with a traditional indie sound that occasionally breaks out into a dancefloor-ready rhythm. But 'Hot Thoughts' sees them acquire a groove that seems almost out of place at times. Stripping away the preexisting expectations of their style, Spoon take on more of a desert rock direction, with howling guitars, echoed vocals and galloping drums sporadically placed throughout.

While there are still remnants of their older sound throughout this LP, it does feel like the band are attempting a more varied avenue on this release, which of course has its mixed results. A confident return but not one of their instant classics.