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Spector (band)
Spector (band)
Spector (band)
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Spector are a British indie rock[1][2] band from London,[3] composed of Frederick Macpherson (vocalist previously of Les Incompétents and Ox.Eagle.Lion.Man), Jed Cullen (guitar), Nicolas Py (drums) and Danny Blandy (keyboard, formerly drums).[4][5] They've released five albums and one compilation. The band's debut album Enjoy It While It Lasts reached number 12 in the UK Albums Chart and went to number one on the Official Record Store Chart on the week of its release.[6]

Key Information

History

[edit]

Spector were formed in 2011 by former Les Incompétents and Ox.Eagle.Lion.Man frontman Fred Macpherson, and practiced and performed their first gigs in Efes Snooker Club in East London.[7] Macpherson notes that the band have drawn inspiration from 1980s acts including Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark, Spandau Ballet and Ultravox.[8]

In 2011, Spector were granted a session on BBC Radio 1 DJ Huw Stephens's radio show, and performed on the BBC Introducing stage at the Reading and Leeds Festival.[9] They appeared on the live broadcast of Later... with Jools Holland on 22 November 2011[10][11] and performed their single "What You Wanted".[12] On the longer, Friday-night show later that week they performed "Chevy Thunder" as well as "Never Fade Away", and it was announced that they would be releasing an album in 2012.[12]

On 5 December 2011, the BBC announced that Spector had been nominated for the BBC's Sound of 2012 poll.[9]

The band performed a headline UK tour in February 2012 and played as a support act for Florence and the Machine's March 2012 tour.[10] Spector also performed their first gig in America at the Coachella Festival in April 2012.[13]

Enjoy It While It Lasts

[edit]

After releasing new single "Celestine" on 20 May 2012,[14] the band revealed that their debut album would be called Enjoy It While It Lasts.[15] The album was released on 13 August 2012 to mixed reviews, reaching number 12 in the UK Album Charts and topping the Official Record Store Chart.

In August 2012, the band played at the Reading and Leeds Festival for the second time, this time on the much larger NME/Radio 1 stage. Following the two dates, Spector announced album track "Friday Night, Don't Ever Let It End" would be released as a single on Monday 12 November 2012.[16] A music video for the single, directed by Alan Del Rio, was released on 7 October 2012.[17]

In October 2012, Spector embarked on promotional tours in Singapore and Malaysia respectively, sponsored by Topman and Universal Music Asia. Following this, the band completed their third UK tour, supported by British indie rock bands Swim Deep, Splashh and LULS. Spector performed at XFM's 'Winter Wonderland' event in December 2012, alongside acts including Bloc Party, Maxïmo Park and Everything Everything.[18] Frontman Fred Macpherson was nominated in the "Best Twitter" and "Villain of the Year" categories at the 2013 NME Awards.[19] In March 2013, the band performed as main support act for Suede at an Alexandra Palace concert.[20]

Spector has a tech team, with a separate fan following via social media platforms Instagram and Twitter, called 'SpectorTech'.[21]

Moth Boys

[edit]

It was announced on 12 July 2013 that Christopher Burman had left the band, with touring members set to fulfil his duties on guitar and synthesizer on upcoming concert dates.[22] The group performed at the Reading & Leeds Festival for the third consecutive year in August 2013,[23] before making their first appearance at Glastonbury Festival in 2014, albeit with their set delayed/curtailed due to a severe electrical storm.[24] Their Glastonbury 2014 set included the live debut of two new tracks, "Stay High" and "Bad Boyfriend".[25] Two more new tracks, "Don't Make Me Try" and "All the Sad Young Men", were performed at a show at Leeds in July.

On 8 December 2014, the new single "Don't Make Me Try" was premiered on Zane Lowe's BBC Radio One show, with a music video for the song being premiered at Noisey the same day. On 3 February 2015, a second single, "All the Sad Young Men", was premiered as Zane Lowe's 'Hottest Record in the World'. In a Twitter Q+A, it was confirmed as the first song on their upcoming album. The band also confirmed an "intimate" gig at London's The Lexington on 12 March to support the release.[26]

On 30 June 2015 they announced their second album, Moth Boys, was to be released through Fiction Records on 21 August that year.[27] The band followed up with an "intimate set and signing" tour to promote their album.[28] They also announced an accompanying UK tour, spanning 13 dates in October[29] with Yoann Intonti on the drums and Spring King and Bill Ryder Jones as supporting acts.[30]

Moth Noise

[edit]

On 1 December 2017, after almost a year after their last shows in the UK, the single "Untitled in D" was released on their own Moth Noise label. It was the first song from an EP that was released in January, along with other tracks "Fine Not Fine", "Local International" and "Wild Guess". Describing the track, frontman Fred Macpherson said: "Untitled in D's been burning a hole in Spector's pocket for a little while now. I wrote the bones of it pretty quickly then Jed came through and channelled the ghost of John Frusciante on guitar and we knew we were on to something. After the sheen of our first two albums it was exciting capturing something simple and irreverent – the sound of us playing in a room rather than playing in a computer".[31]

The EP, titled Ex-Directory, was finally released on 9 March 2018, along with a video for "Fine Not Fine"[32] directed by Sarah Pearson[33] and shot in and around Taroudant. Spector announced an accompanying UK tour, with seven dates in May 2018[34] along with appearances at festivals including Reading and Leeds Festival.[35] In December 2018 they surprise released a second EP called Spector Reloaded.[36]

On 4 June 2019, the band released a non-album single, titled "I Won't Wait". Two more singles, titled "Half Life" and "Simplicity", followed on 6 August and 18 October, respectively. On 31 March 2020, a four-track EP called Extended Play was released, comprising these three tracks as well as one new song, titled "When Did We Get So Normal?"[37]

On 19 February 2020, the band announced the release of compilation Non-Fiction,[38] comprising all three EPs, along with the unreleased demo "Bryndon 2", written by Bryndon Cook.[39]

Now or Whenever

[edit]

In June 2021, the band released the single "Catch You on the Way Back" and announced that their first studio album in six years would be soon released.[40] The album, called Now or Whenever was originally scheduled to be released on 1 October 2021,[41][42] but was pushed back until 7 January 2022 due to vinyl manufacturing delays.[43] It charted at Number 40 on the UK Albums Chart.

Here Come the Early Nights

[edit]

In September 2023, the band announced the release that their next album, called Here Come the Early Nights would be released in November 2023. The band also announced a UK tour for November and December 2023 and released the single "The Notion" from the album.[44] The album was released on the 24th of November 2023.

Discography

[edit]

Studio albums

[edit]
Title Details Peak chart positions
UK
[45] 		UK
Record
Store
Enjoy It While It Lasts 12 1
Moth Boys
  • Released: 21 August 2015
  • Label: Fiction
  • Formats: CD, LP, digital download
 27 1
Now or Whenever
  • Released: 7 January 2022[46][47]
  • Label: Moth Noise
  • Formats: CD, LP record, cassette, digital download
 40 3
Here Come the Early Nights
  • Released: 24 November 2023[48]
  • Label: Moth Noise
  • Formats: CD, LP record, cassette, digital download
 — 5

Compilations

[edit]
Title Details Peak chart positions
UK
Record
Store
Non-Fiction
  • Released: 1 June 2020
  • Label: Moth Noise
  • Formats: LP
 10

Extended plays

[edit]
  • Ex-Directory (9 March 2018)[49]
  • Reloaded (30 November 2018)[50]
  • Extended Play (31 March 2020)

Singles

[edit]
Year Title Album
2011 "Never Fade Away" Enjoy It While It Lasts
"What You Wanted"
  • 19 September 2011[52]
"Grey Shirt and Tie"
2012 "Chevy Thunder"
  • 26 January 2012
Celestine
  • 20 May 2012
"Friday Night, Don't Ever Let It End"
2014 "Don't Make Me Try" Moth Boys
2015 "All the Sad Young Men"
  • 3 February 2015
"Bad Boyfriend"
"Stay High"
2016 "Born in the EU"
  • 21 June 2016
 Non-album single
2017 "Untitled in D" Ex-Directory EP
2019 "I Won't Wait" Extended Play
"Half Life"
"Simplicity"
2021 "Catch You On The Way Back In" Now or Whenever
"Funny Way Of Showing It"
"Bad Summer"
"No One Knows Better"
"Country Boy" Non-album single
"I'm Not Crying You're Crying" Now or Whenever
2022 "Felony" Non-album single

Awards and nominations

[edit]
Year Organisation Award Result
2011 BBC Sound of 2012 Sound of 2012[9] Nominated
2013 NME Awards Villain of the Year Nominated
2013 NME Awards Twitter of the Year Nominated

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Spector (band)

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Spector are a British band formed in in 2010, fronted by vocalist Fred Macpherson and initially comprising a five-piece lineup that honed their craft through early gigs in venues and sessions. The group rose to prominence with their debut album, Enjoy It While It Lasts (2012), released via , which peaked at number 12 on the and showcased their signature blend of synth-driven anthems and glamorous pop hooks. Drawing influences from glam rock pioneers like and Britpop acts such as Pulp, Spector's sound evolved from the sparkly, Strokes-esque of their early singles—"What You Wanted" and "Grey Shirt & Tie" (both 2011)—to more introspective and mature explorations in later works, often reflecting themes of youth, melancholy, and modern life. Key long-standing members include guitarist Jed Cullen, alongside drummer Nicolas Py, with the current lineup maintaining a core collaborative dynamic as a London-based ensemble. After early successes including appearances on and festival slots at Reading and in 2011, the band transitioned to their independent label Moth Noise, releasing Moth Boys (2015, peaking at number 27 in the UK), the compilation (2020), Now or Whenever (2022, number 40), and their fourth studio album Here Come the Early Nights (2023), which grapples with post-pandemic personal and societal shifts. As of 2025, Spector continue to tour, including shows celebrating the 10th anniversary of Moth Boys.

History

Formation and early career (2010–2011)

Spector was formed in in 2010 by vocalist Fred Macpherson and guitarist Chris Burman, who had been collaborating on music since their teenage years and envisioned the project as a series of "experiments in pop" to explore innovative sounds. The initial lineup included Macpherson on vocals, Burman on guitar, bassist Thomas Shickle, Jed Cullen on synthesizer and guitar, and drummer Danny Blandy, drawing from Macpherson's prior experience fronting bands like Les Incompétents and Ox.Eagle.Lion.Man. The group developed their polished, synth-driven style through informal rehearsals and early gigs at venues like Efes Snooker Club in , building a local buzz in the indie scene. In , Spector gained wider exposure with a live session on Radio 1's Huw Stephens show and a debut performance on the BBC Introducing stage at the , where they showcased tracks that highlighted their energetic, anthemic pop-rock approach. These appearances marked a breakthrough, positioning the band as an emerging force in the UK music landscape and leading to further radio plays on BBC Radio 1's Introducing platform. By late 2011, Spector's momentum earned them a nomination in the Sound of 2012 poll, where they ranked among rising acts like and , signaling industry recognition for their potential. This acclaim culminated in their signing to , a Polydor imprint known for indie acts, following the release of their debut single "Never Fade Away," which secured a major label deal and set the stage for their professional trajectory.

Enjoy It While It Lasts era (2012–2013)

Spector's breakthrough came with the release of their debut single "Chevy Thunder" in January , which became a critical favorite and topped the Indie Singles Chart. The track's energetic sound, featuring driving guitars and anthemic choruses, helped establish the band's reputation for catchy, nostalgic pop. The band's debut , Enjoy It While It Lasts, followed on August 13, , via . Produced by James Ford, the record peaked at number 12 on the and reached number 1 on the Official Record Store Chart in its debut week. It featured 12 tracks blending synth-driven melodies with raw guitar riffs, drawing acclaim for its 1980s-inspired aesthetic reminiscent of Phil Spector-era production techniques. To promote the album, Spector embarked on an extensive tour in autumn 2012, including headline shows and support slots. They also gained prominence with performances at major festivals, notably headlining the /Radio 1 stage at in August 2012, where they delivered high-energy sets including "Chevy Thunder" and new album material. Follow-up singles such as "Celestine" in April and "Do You Remember" in August further showcased the album's vibrant sound, with the latter coinciding with the LP's release and receiving praise for its wistful lyrics and upbeat tempo. The era marked Spector's initial commercial success and growing international profile, highlighted by their US debut performance at Coachella in 2012, which expanded their audience beyond the UK indie scene. Reviews of Enjoy It While It Lasts were generally positive, lauding its polished yet playful take on 1980s synth-pop influences, though some critics noted its theatrical elements as occasionally overwrought.

Moth Boys and Moth Noise (2014–2016)

In December 2014, Spector released the single "Don't Make Me Try", produced by (also known as ), which introduced a darker, more brooding tone compared to their debut era, with lyrics exploring emotional vulnerability and restraint. The band's second studio album, Moth Boys, followed on 21 August 2015 via , featuring 13 tracks that expanded on synth-driven with chrome-like 1980s melodies and sharper, more personal songwriting from frontman Fred Macpherson. The record peaked at number 27 on the . To support Moth Boys, Spector embarked on an extensive tour across the and , including headline shows in October 2015 that visited cities such as , Birmingham, , and , alongside festival appearances at (on the William's Green stage), Field Day, Sound City, and . Critics praised the album for its shift toward introspective lyrics addressing themes of disillusionment and millennial angst—exemplified in the opening track ""—paired with production changes that emphasized a gothic, despondent atmosphere over the debut's upbeat energy, marking a sophisticated evolution in the band's sound.

Independent phase and EPs (2017–2020)

Following the release of their second album Moth Boys in 2015, Spector parted ways with Fiction Records in 2017, marking a significant transition to independent operations. This shift coincided with lineup changes, including the departure of drummer Yoann Intonti to join The Vaccines, as the band sought greater creative control. Embracing self-management, Spector established their own imprint, Moth Noise Entertainment, to handle future releases and maintain artistic autonomy amid a period of reevaluation. The band's independent era began with the EP Ex-Directory, self-released on March 9, 2018, comprising four tracks that explored themes of modern disconnection and . Key songs included "Untitled in D," which had previewed the collection months earlier, and "Fine Not Fine," blending energy with sharp lyrical wit. Produced in-house, the EP signaled Spector's evolution toward a rawer, more personal sound, free from major-label constraints. Building momentum, Spector surprise-dropped the four-track EP on November 30, 2018, via Moth . Self-produced and featuring live favorites like "Tenner" in a studio version, alongside new cuts such as "Love Will Do Your Head Right In" and "Zone Two," the release captured the band's revitalized touring form. It followed a successful run of shows supporting Ex-Directory, including a sold-out performance in . In early 2020, Spector issued on March 31, their third EP in the independent phase, which included singles "Half Life" and "I Won't Wait" from 2019, plus "Simplicity" and the new "When Did We Get So Normal?" The collection emphasized concise, hook-driven , reflecting the band's core lineup of vocalist Frederick Macpherson, guitarist Jed Cullen, drummer Nicolas Py, and keyboardist Danny Blandy, with Shaun Paterson contributing on bass. Capping this period, Spector compiled their recent output into , a 13-track vinyl collection released on April 29, 2020, via Moth Noise. Drawing from Ex-Directory, , and , it gathered B-sides, rarities, and EP highlights like "Even When You Pass My Way" and the vinyl-exclusive "Bryndon 2," offering fans a physical of post-label material. The album debuted at number 82 on the , underscoring sustained niche appeal. Touring remained sporadic during this phase, with active UK dates in 2018 promoting the EPs, but the COVID-19 pandemic curtailed live activities from mid-2020 onward. The band pivoted to digital platforms for Extended Play and Non-Fiction, prioritizing virtual engagement and home-based production amid global restrictions.

Now or Whenever (2021–2022)

Following a period of releasing EPs independently, Spector announced their third studio album, Now or Whenever, in June 2021, marking their return to full-length records after a six-year hiatus from albums. The album was initially scheduled for release on October 1, 2021, via the band's own Moth Noise label but was postponed to January 7, 2022, due to vinyl manufacturing delays amid ongoing global supply chain disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic. Upon release, Now or Whenever debuted at number 40 on the UK Albums Chart and reached number 3 on the Official Record Store Chart, reflecting strong support from independent retailers. The album's lead single, "Catch You on the Way Back In," was released on June 1, 2021, introducing a blend of and upbeat indie rhythms that previewed the record's tone. Subsequent singles included "Do You Wanna Drive" and "Funny Way of Showing It," which further showcased the band's evolved songwriting focused on personal reflection and relational dynamics. These tracks emphasized Frederick Macpherson's distinctive vocals over polished production, drawing comparisons to the group's earlier roots while incorporating more mature, narrative-driven elements. To promote the album, Spector embarked on a headline tour in early 2022, with rescheduled dates following COVID-19-related postponements that had disrupted initial live plans in 2021. The tour included key shows such as at Manchester's O2 Ritz in April and London's in December, alongside festival appearances like Nibley Festival, where the band performed material from Now or Whenever alongside fan favorites. These live outings allowed Spector to reconnect with audiences post-pandemic, highlighting their energetic stage presence and the album's anthemic qualities. Critics praised Now or Whenever for its return to a refined indie rock sound, with themes of nostalgia, loss, and fleeting connections adding emotional depth to the band's signature synth-infused arrangements. Reviews noted the album's cohesive polish and Macpherson's lyrical introspection, positioning it as a thoughtful evolution rather than a radical departure, earning scores like 4/5 from DIY Magazine for its balance of energy and subtlety. The COVID-19 pandemic influenced the recording process by limiting collaborative sessions, leading to a more intimate, home-based approach that infused the tracks with a sense of isolation and urgency, while also delaying the album's rollout and forcing tour adjustments.

Here Come the Early Nights and recent activities (2023–present)

Spector released their fourth studio album, Here Come the Early Nights, on November 24, 2023, through the independent label Moth Noise. The record, recorded over thirteen days in with producer Dimitri Tikovoi, explores themes of aging, routine, and introspection through a mix of guitar-driven anthems and reflective ballads. It debuted at number 88 on the but achieved greater success independently, peaking at number 5 on the Official Record Store Chart. Preceding the album's launch, the band issued singles such as "The Notion" in September 2023 and "Another Life" in late 2023, both of which previewed the album's blend of witty lyricism and melodic hooks. To support the release, Spector embarked on a nine-date headline tour in and 2023, performing at venues including Students' Union and Electric , where they showcased material from the new album alongside earlier hits. In December 2024, the band played a special show at 's on December 31, billed as their "first and last show of the year," with support from L'Objectif and a celebratory jukebox set. This performance marked a festive close to their 2024 activities, following a year of limited appearances. Following the show, the band had limited public activities throughout 2025 until the announced December dates. Amid hints of a hiatus—frontman Fred Macpherson noted the band would be "off in 2025" in promotional posts—Spector confirmed select live dates for late 2025, including December 17 at Manchester's Academy 2 and December 18 at 's . As of November 2025, no new album has been announced.

Musical style and influences

Musical style

Spector's musical style is primarily , infused with elements of 1980s and new wave, drawing from influences like to create a glamorous, polished sound. The band's core characteristics include anthemic, hook-driven melodies that emphasize theatrical energy, reverb-drenched guitars for spatial depth, subtle electronic flourishes, and the resonant vocals of frontman Fred Macpherson, which anchor their emotive delivery. This combination yields a vibrant, crowd-pleasing aesthetic that blends rock urgency with pop accessibility. Over the course of their discography, Spector's style has evolved from the buoyant, party-oriented indie of their 2012 debut Enjoy It While It Lasts—marked by chugging rhythms and faux-Americana bombast—to a more shadowed, introspective palette in later releases like 2015's Moth Boys, continuing with synth-affected indie swagger and post-pandemic reflections in Now or Whenever (2022) and Here Come the Early Nights (2023). In the latter, Macpherson's singing takes on a brooding intensity reminiscent of Ian Curtis, shifting toward themes of weariness and wit amid chrome-edged 1980s melodies. Their production approach prioritizes live band instrumentation to preserve organic dynamics and immediacy, while selectively adding orchestral accents—such as swells in ballads—for heightened emotional texture and drama. This method, often featuring cavernous reverb and layered arrangements, bridges raw rock foundations with sophisticated pop sheen, evolving subtly across albums to reflect the band's maturing perspective.

Influences

Spector's frontman Fred Macpherson has cited several 1980s acts as key influences, particularly for the band's incorporation of synth-driven elements into their sound. He has highlighted (OMD), , and as formative bands from the era, drawing from their blend of electronic textures and pop melodies. The band's inspirations extend to and early 2000s , with Macpherson referencing Oasis as a significant cultural touchstone from his youth, even if he was too young to experience their peak firsthand. Modern indie influences include , whose anthemic, synth-infused guitar rock has been described as a major reference point for Spector's debut album Enjoy It While It Lasts, shaping its glossy, immediate energy. Other pivotal acts from Macpherson's formative years, such as , , and , inform the band's raw, youthful edge and post-punk-inflected urgency. Macpherson has also drawn from non-musical sources, including theatrical film and television influences like the musicals Oliver! and , which shaped his appreciation for narrative-driven, dramatic storytelling in performance. These elements contribute to Spector's lyrical themes, often exploring , the fleeting nature of youth, and urban existence in , as Macpherson describes the band's work as an evolving "teenage diary" reflecting personal growth amid city life. Such motifs echo post-punk traditions of introspective social observation, seen in influences like , while addressing modern isolation and emotional vulnerability.

Band members

Current members

The current lineup of Spector consists of four members. Frederick Macpherson serves as the lead vocalist and primary songwriter, having founded the band in 2010 alongside initial collaborator Chris Burman. Jed Cullen plays guitar and joined the group in 2012, becoming part of the core songwriting duo with Macpherson and providing instrumental depth to their sound. Nicolas Py has been the band's since 2017, bringing a steady that has supported their touring and recording efforts, including on recent releases like Now or Whenever (2022), as of 2025. Jen Sanin joined as in 2022, adding both low-end drive and backing vocals to live performances and contributing to the band's post-2020 independent phase.

Former members

Spector's original lineup underwent significant changes in its early years, with co-founder Chris Burman serving as the band's keyboardist and guitarist from 2010 to 2014. Burman's departure in the summer of was amicable and stemmed from creative differences as the group evolved toward a new sound for their sophomore album. This shift prompted internal role adjustments, including a reevaluation of the band's direction that influenced their transition to a more electronic-infused style. Bassist Thomas Shickle joined in 2011 and contributed to the band's rhythm section through 2017, playing on albums like Enjoy It While It Lasts and Moth Boys. His exit in 2017 was part of broader lineup evolution, as Shickle left music to pursue a career in the fashion industry. Drummer Yoann Intonti, who joined in 2011, provided the driving percussion for Spector's live performances and recordings until 2017. Intonti's departure that year allowed him to join The Vaccines as their permanent drummer, marking another key change amid the band's independent phase. Danny Blandy was an early member, serving as drummer from the band's formation in 2010 until 2013, after which he transitioned to keyboards and contributed to subsequent releases including Moth Boys, before departing around 2020. These changes around 2014 and 2017 reflected ongoing creative evolution, though they briefly impacted the group's momentum.

Discography

Studio albums

Spector's debut studio album, Enjoy It While It Lasts, was released on 13 August 2012 through . The record features 12 tracks and was produced by a team including , , Mark Rankin, , , and . It peaked at number 12 on the . The band's second album, Moth Boys, arrived on 21 August 2015, also via . Comprising 11 tracks, it was produced by , Duncan Mills, and the band, with additional production by Adam Jaffrey. The album explores themes of millennial , modern romance, heartache, and societal decay. It reached number 27 on the . Now or Whenever, Spector's third studio album, was independently released on 7 January 2022 through their own Moth Noise label. The 11-track effort was produced by Rich Turvey. It debuted at number 40 on the . The latest release, Here Come the Early Nights, came out on 24 November 2023 on Is Right Records. This 10-track album was produced by Tikovoi and recorded over 13 days in . It peaked at number 5 on the Official Record Store Chart and number 88 on the .

Compilation albums

Non-Fiction is Spector's only , released on 29 April 2020 via their independent label Moth Noise.
The 13-track collects material from the band's three digital EPs issued between 2017 and 2019—Ex-Directory (2017), (2018), and (2019)—bringing these previously digital-only recordings to physical formats, including limited neon green and white vinyl editions.
Intended as a rarities collection to bridge the gap following their 2015 album Moth Boys, it features an exclusive original home demo version of "Tenner" alongside other non-album tracks, highlighting the band's output during their self-released period.
entered the at number 82. The track listing is as follows:
  1. Untitled in D
  3. Local International
  4. Wild Guess
  5. Even When You Mean It
  6. Business Enterprise
  7. Ex-Directory
  8. Tenner
  9. Funny Little World
  11. Grey
  12. West of Eden

Extended plays

Spector entered a prolific phase of independent releases with their extended plays, marking a shift to self-production following their departure from major label support after their second album. These EPs, all self-released, showcased evolving sounds with introspective lyrics and experimental production, bridging the gap between their early work and later full-length efforts. The debut extended play, Ex-Directory, arrived on March 9, , as the band's first independent release after a period of label uncertainty. Comprising four tracks, it explored themes of disconnection and urban ennui through polished yet raw arrangements, drawing praise for its concise emotional depth despite its brevity. Key tracks include the lead single "Untitled in D," a brooding opener with shimmering guitars; "Fine Not Fine," addressing struggles with urgent vocals; "Local International," blending synths and driving rhythms; and "Wild Guess," closing with hazy introspection. The EP was produced by the band and received positive reviews for revitalizing their sound post-label hiatus. Later that year, on November 30, 2018, Spector surprise-dropped Reloaded, a four-track EP that experimented with funkier grooves and reimagined live favorites, produced entirely by the band themselves. This release diverged from prior indie rock templates, incorporating bolder rhythms and thematic nods to personal reinvention, and was highlighted for its unexpected energy. Standout tracks feature the groovy single "Love Will Do Your Head Right In," evoking '70s influences; an EP version of "Tenner," a longtime live staple with enhanced production; "Zone Two," capturing London nightlife vibes; and "Even When You Pass My Way," a reflective closer. Critics noted its fresh departure, solidifying the band's creative autonomy. In 2020, was released on 31 March, serving as a transitional collection that previewed the band's upcoming material amid the global pandemic. This self-released four-track EP compiled recent non-album singles with one new song, emphasizing matured songwriting on normalcy and resilience, and acted as a precursor to their Non-Fiction. Notable inclusions are "I Won't Wait" and "Half Life," both 2019 singles with anthemic choruses; "Simplicity," a stripped-back highlight from late 2019; and the exclusive "When Did We Get So Normal?," pondering post-tour life. The EP underscored Spector's adaptability, earning acclaim for its timely introspection.

Singles

Spector's singles discography features a selection of tracks that have highlighted the band's evolution from anthems to more introspective synth-driven compositions, often serving as lead promotions for their studio albums. The band's breakthrough single, "Chevy Thunder," was released on February 12, 2012, via , marking their major label debut and capturing attention with its energetic sound tied to their first album Enjoy It While It Lasts. It topped the UK Indie Singles Chart, underscoring their early appeal in the alternative scene. Following a period of activity, "Don't Make Me Try" emerged as the from their second album Moth Boys on December 8, 2014, through , showcasing a shift toward elements with its sharp hooks. After a six-year gap in full-length releases, Spector returned with "Catch You on the Way Back In" on June 1, 2021, via 33 & West / Moth Noise, heralding their third album Now or Whenever and described by the band as a high-tempo farewell . In 2023, the band issued "The Notion" on August 15 as the lead single from their fourth album Here Come the Early Nights, blending melodic allure with lyrical depth and featuring a guest guitar solo from . This release, their first in 18 months, emphasized themes of introspection and musical maturity. Other key singles tied to albums include "Celestine" from 2012, which preceded Enjoy It While It Lasts and built on the momentum of "Chevy Thunder," and "Country Boy," a non-album standalone in 2021 that previewed their return to form.

Recognition

Awards

Spector gained early recognition as one of the UK's most promising emerging acts through their inclusion on the BBC Sound of 2012 longlist, a prestigious annual poll voted on by over 130 industry experts in late 2011 to identify rising talent for the coming year. The band's debut album, Enjoy It While It Lasts, achieved a significant accolade by topping the Official Record Store Chart upon its release in August 2012, reflecting strong support from independent retailers across the UK. Similarly, their second album, Moth Boys, released in August 2015, also reached number one on the Official Record Store Chart in its debut week, underscoring Spector's continued popularity within the and among vinyl enthusiasts.

Nominations

In 2013, Spector frontman Fred Macpherson received two nominations at the : for Best Twitter and Villain of the Year. These nominations highlighted Macpherson's polarizing online presence and public persona during the band's rising popularity. Neither category resulted in a win for Macpherson.

References

  1. https://www.bbc.co.uk/music/soundof/2012/artists/spector/
  2. https://www.officialcharts.com/artist/7561/spector/
  3. https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2011/oct/30/why-were-watching-spector-band
  4. https://www.nme.com/news/music/spector-share-buoyant-new-single-another-life-3502818
  5. https://www.thelineofbestfit.com/features/interviews/residing-on-the-periphery-with-spector
  6. https://www.songkick.com/artists/1480897-spector/calendar
  7. https://www.facebook.com/stereoboard/posts/new-10-years-on-from-the-release-of-moth-boys-indie-band-spector-will-celebrate-/1316025173858483/
  8. https://primarytalent.com/spector/
  9. https://www.theguardian.com/music/2011/may/26/new-band-spector
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  11. https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0150bbf
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  14. https://www.bbc.co.uk/music/soundof/2012/artists/spector
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  17. https://drownedinsound.com/releases/17174/reviews/4145320
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  22. https://www.nme.com/photos/reading-and-leeds-festivals-2012-in-photos-1436204
  23. https://www.highroadtouring.com/artists/spector/
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  26. https://drownedinsound.com/releases/18958/reviews/4149295
  27. https://www.officialcharts.com/albums/spector-moth-boys/
  28. https://www.nme.com/news/music/spector-2-1222715
  29. https://www.theguardian.com/music/2015/aug/20/spector-moth-boys-review
  30. https://www.mysticsons.com/article/spector-moth-boys
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  32. https://www.thelineofbestfit.com/features/interviews/spector-rise-fall-rebirth
  33. https://www.gigslutz.co.uk/spector-announce-compilation-ep-non-fiction-released-29th-april-via-moth-noise/
  34. https://music.apple.com/us/album/ex-directory-ep/1552791721
  35. https://rateyourmusic.com/release/ep/spector/ex-directory/
  36. https://babbleogue.wordpress.com/2018/03/09/ex-directory-spector/
  37. https://freq.org.uk/reviews/spector-ex-directory-ep/
  38. https://www.thelineofbestfit.com/news/latest-news/spector-drop-surprise-four-track-ep-reloaded
  39. https://whenthehornblows.com/content//2018/05/live-review-spector-gorilla-manchester.html
  40. https://music.apple.com/gb/album/extended-play-ep/1503536982
  41. https://diymag.com/news/listen-spector-when-did-we-get-so-normal
  42. https://diymag.com/news/spector-announce-new-compilation-non-fiction
  43. https://www.nme.com/news/music/spector-announce-third-album-now-or-whenever-and-share-lead-single-catch-you-on-the-way-back-2953108
  44. https://www.clashmusic.com/news/spector-announce-new-album-now-or-whenever/
  45. https://www.officialcharts.com/albums/spector-now-or-whenever/
  46. https://www.clashmusic.com/reviews/spector-now-or-whenever/
  47. https://www.gigseekr.com/uk/en/london/spector-now-or-whenever-tour-2022/event/xzv9
  48. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j22Rej_iMc4
  49. https://diymag.com/review/album/spector-now-or-whenever-album-review
  50. https://diymag.com/review/album/spector-here-come-the-early-nights
  51. https://www.officialcharts.com/charts/record-store-chart/20231201/530/
  52. https://www.clashmusic.com/news/spector-announce-new-album-here-come-the-early-nights/
  53. https://allmusicmagazine.com/spector-share-new-single-another-life-taken-from-new-album-here-come-the-early-nights-out-24th-november-2023/
  54. https://allmusicmagazine.com/spector-announce-brand-new-album-here-come-the-early-nights-details-of-full-uk-tour-this-nov-dec/
  55. https://www.godisinthetvzine.co.uk/2023/12/03/in-camera-spector-newcastle-university-students-union-29-11-2023/
  56. https://www.instagram.com/p/DDC7rJQuwLZ/
  57. https://www.spector.co.uk/
  58. https://www.allmusic.com/artist/mn0002709135
  59. https://www.gigwise.com/features/75470/gigwise-session-spector-true-love-for-now/
  60. https://www.vice.com/en/article/have-spector-saved-indie-music/
  61. https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/spector-here-come-the-early-nights-album-review/
  62. https://hippopress.com/2023/11/album-reviews-23-11-23/
  63. https://thequietus.com/interviews/bakers-dozen/spector-fred-macpherson-bakers-dozen/
  64. https://bittersweetsymphonies.co.uk/2015/10/20/interview-with-spector/
  65. https://primarytalent.com/spector/sep2012/
  66. https://www.clashmusic.com/features/confront-repetition-spector-interviewed/
  67. https://www.xsnoize.com/spector-announce-new-album-now-or-whenever-hear-first-single-catch-you-on-the-way-back-in/
  68. https://www.theupcoming.co.uk/2018/05/25/spector-at-scala-live-review/
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  72. http://drownedinsound.com/in_depth/4148704-we-re-only-just-starting-to-work-out-what-spector-is---dis-meets-spector
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