Spiritual Beggars started as a side project of Michael Amott, a genius guitarist of Carcass and Arch Enemy. Over the years Spiritual Beggars became one of the best vintage rock bands, mixing blues and psychedelic rock of 70’s and 80’s with the modern sound, creating some truly exciting albums that with time surpassed the quality of Arch Enemy. Even though two bands have nothing in common, except the fact that both are based on electric guitar sound.
Now, with the release of From Sunrise To Sundown, Spiritual Beggars again delivered quality tunes that would be huge hits if this was 1978. Unfortunately, we’re living in different times when a release like this will stay unrecognized by masses. Fortunately, you can find out more about it in this review.
The album is strong, with many quality songs and without any weak ones that could be considered unnecessary, fillers. The sound is thick, heavy and well produced. Apollo’s vocals are again spot on, and while not at the same level as JB’s (previous singer who has that gritty sounding voice perfect for music like this) there are still really enjoyable. Amott’s playing style is easy to recognize, especially melodic leads, similar to his work with Arch Enemy but at the same time completely original and perfectly in line with the vintage hard-rock style of Spiritual Beggars.
Music is leaning more toward classic hard rock, with fewer blues influences than on previous two albums, and not as many psychedelic moments, prominent on their first two albums. Still, this is quality vintage hard rock that is masterfully executed.
The album starts strong with Sunrise to Sundown, a kicking tune that’s heavy but chill at the same time, continues with Diamond Under Pressure and What Doesn’t Kill You, two songs that serve as perfect examples of their style of play, with heavy guitars, melodic keyboards and plenty of basses. As album plays on there are no weak spots, only quality compositions perfect for the spring time when everything wakes up, is in bloom and is beautiful to look at (or hear). Southern Star is especially attractive, a classic hard rock tale of a star fading out, going to a better place while his friends celebrate his life through a song.
Sunrise to Sundown is better than last two offerings and can be considered on par with their best albums (Ad Astra, On Fire). Recommended for all people loving hard rock, especially for those claiming the 70’s were the golden age of rock music. Play this album and a bit of that magic could reach you again.
