Releasedate:   14-02-2025
Label: Wild Kingdom Records

Spiders is a band from Sweden known for their 70’s retro rock with sabbath influences, a style that was popularised again by fellow Swedish bands like Witchcraft and Graveyard at the beginning of the 2010s. Spiders this time are going in a bit of a different direction with their return. Sharp Objects, their new album is a high-energy rock ‘n’ roll record that leans hard into classic rock with a punk attitude. They are not trying to reinvent anything here, it’s more about keeping that rock and roll spirit paired up with some catchy tunes. Compared to their earlier work—especially their 2011 EP—some of that Sabbath-tinged heaviness feels absent, but what’s here is undeniably raw, hooky, and packed with attitude.

The album kicks off with Rock ‘n’ Roll Band, a track that perfectly embodies that classic rock tradition of, well, singing about being in a rock band. I couldn’t help but wonder—who was trying to get into their band so badly that they felt the need to write a song about it? It’s a funny, totally un-relatable rock ‘n’ roll trope, but hey, it works. It’s a high-energy opener with that tip of the hat to Hellacopters, making it a solid start.

Both Sweet Boy and What’s Your Game (Miss Insane) bring in a straight forward punk energy, with a strong Ramones feel that make them both the most fun tracks on the album. They don’t overcomplicate things— simple, memorable, and straight to the point, although Sweet Boy is the catchiest of the two and I have to say Ann Sofie’s vocals here are on point.

Then we get Fun in the Sun, which stands out thanks to the male vocals from guitarist John Hoyles. His delivery has a punky Mick Jagger quality, adding a unique twist to the record. It’s probably the most unexpected moment on the album, making it a definite highlight, one of my favorites.

On the other hand, Too Hard for You is a straightforward hard rock song that doesn’t do much for me. It’s not bad—it just doesn’t bring anything particularly fresh to the table.

Life Mission is another track that benefits from John’s vocals, this time giving off a distinct Iggy Pop vibe. It’s got that raw, stripped-down quality that makes it stand out in the tracklist.

The real standout for me, though, is Mess With My Emotions. It’s got a punky Hellacopters energy with an insanely catchy chorus that sticks with you long after the song ends. It’s pure rock ‘n’ roll, and easily my favourite track on the album. Overall, Sharp Objects is a great rock record. It might not have the heavier edge of their earlier work, but what it delivers is no-nonsense, punk inspired rock and roll that makes you want to turn it up loud. If you’re into rock music that covers any of the sounds by any of the musical references I mentioned above then this record might be for you.

Line up:

• Ann-Sofie Hoyles – Vocals, harmonica
• John Hoyles – Guitars, vocals
• Olle Griphammar – Bass, backing vocals
• Rickard Hellgren – Guitar, backing vocals
• Oskar Brindmark – Drums

Links:

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