Spine & Sensory

Seemingly inspired by any number of notable first-wave instrumentalists (most audibly, Pell Mell), Tristeza is at its best when keeping the pace peppy and not relying solely on repetition to gets its point over. Some of the more ambitious numbers don't vary enough to make an impact, but the band displays a keen ability to serve up highly catchy, guitar-centric melodies on "Memphis Emphasis" and the gorgeous, fluttery "Electrolytes." The San Diego five-piece takes a page from the Tortoise trick book on "Muerte En Tu Sueno," a free-floating detuned guitar line shrouded in reverb, while "The Marionette" offers a less majestic take on Bundy K. Brown's excellent Directions In Music release. 

Spine And Sensory does take a few songs to get going, and may not be well-suited to fans of more obtuse instrumentalism. Still, this record has a well-intentioned beauty to it that soothes both the bruised heart and the wandering mind.