’80s nostalgia with a modern twist. Justin Vallesteros, recording as Craft Spells, originally released Idle Labor in 2011. ’80s synth/guitar pop inspires the 11 tracks, and listening to the LP is a pleasant trip down memory lane for those that grew up on Factory Records and 4AD (Vallesteros’s voice has been compared to that of Ian Curtis). “After the Moment” is bursting with hazy, gentle energy that defines the sound of the LP, and “Party Talk” is about “feelings of hesitation and melancholy,” which are signature Craft Spells traits that drive the songwriting. “Scandinavian Crush” is another stand out, with reverb-drenched vocals, mopey-yet-hopeful lyrics, and fun guitar stabs carving out updated New Order vibes.

• black vinyl pressing
• music label: Captured Tracks 2011

reviewed by rei kwondo 07/18