Many bands creative processes were hindered by the COVID-19 global pandemic, but Spirit Fest was hit especially hard. Their members were flung across Germany (the Notwists Markus Acher and Cico Beck), Japan (Tenniscoats Saya and Ueno Takashi), and the U.K. (Mat Fowler), and the connection of playing together in the same room was a vital part of their music, so they had to wait until a 2021 tour provided the opportunity to record their fourth album. Bear in Town makes it clear just how much Spirit Fest seized the moment. They balance the more refined writing of Mirage Mirage with the intimate improvisations of their debut on rangy songs that sound more like theyre being discovered than recorded. Though Fowler had to contribute his parts remotely, as a whole the album resonates with the joy of being able to share music and feelings in person once again. Led by Saya, "Kou Kou Land" is the sound of Spirit Fest just enjoying playing together as they blend the spontaneous sweetness of Tenniscoats with a dash of post-rock sophistication. Similarly, the folky, lilting title track thrives on the live energy of its looping acoustic riff and Saya and Achers shared vocals. Bear in Town proves that Spirit Fests skill at writing gorgeously melancholy pop songs didnt desert them during their time apart; if anything, the longing on Achers standouts "In Our House" and "Like a Plane" rings truer because of their separation. There are also welcome surprises, like "Hill Blo," an easygoing bossa nova experiment made possible by the bands intuitive chemistry. Spirit Fests music may be gentle, but the connection underpinning it is strong. Bear in Town is a comforting, inspiring return and a reminder that they combine the endearing and the elegant better than just about anyone else. ~ Heather Phares

Rovi