A Bellowing Testament That Values Precision And Power In Equal Parts - Spades GT Release Second Album 'United'


Pulling themselves out from the tunnels running beneath Sewer City, Spades GT deliver their second album that is coated in a well-defined grime that allows them to seamlessly traverse the lines between punk, thrash, and classic heavy rock. 

With a window of just six months after releasing their debut, and sharing bills across Ontario, the odds of releasing a fully actualized sophomore album were against them - but odds be damned. When you have so much to say and wield the musical acumen to say it well and loud, there really is no reason to wait.  


The Barrie-based quartet released their sophomore album United on July 5, and expanded their arsenal of tones and tempos to include a more polished sound without losing any integrity. Where Sewer City Radio was a rough and hard-hitting introduction, United is a bellowing testament that values precision and power in equal parts. 


As the title implies, United is a call for undivided cooperation between all us street-level humanoids. There are no illusions of grandeur or pomp present on the album. Instead, there is a sense of dire need to connect with each other on a basic human level, and open our eyes to the demons that try to sow division - and have a little fun in doing so (“Wrecked” is a great example). From its anti-war sentiments, the mounting pressures of life, and the struggles of mental health, anyone would be hard-pressed to leave this album with nothing to relate to.  


Ten seconds into “Anthem”, it is made very clear what you’re going to get - a heavy, fast, and relentless collection of new material from musicians who know exactly what they're doing…and if they don’t know, they are faking the hell out of it. The drums are precise, the bass drives, the vocals never dull, and I could not be happier that Spades GT are unapologetically making space for screaming guitars and solos.  


As previously established, the 8 new tracks on United are indeed heavy, but there are so many moments that are impossible not to groove to. They balance power with rhythm and create an infectious blend for headbangers and groovers alike. There is a sway and swagger to the album, and even a surprise addition of hip-hop flavour on “Strong”. Spades GT have never been fearful of blending elements across several genres to create their signature sound. 


On United, Spades GT show no signs of hesitance and attack each second of the runtime with passion, power, and purpose. The message is clear, the groove is heavy, and Spades GT are here to stay.

Stream United on Spotify here.

Follow Spades GT on Instagram here.

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