Hailing from the heart of Detroit, Spyderhuff is a band that thrives on fusing diverse musical styles, much like the city itself—where hard work and innovation meet in every corner. The band’s lineup consists of seasoned musicians: Tom Kuhr (vocals, guitar, harmonica, sax, synth), Don Beyer (bass, synth), Jim Pauli (drums), Joey Gaydos (guitar), Tony Mitchell (congas, bongos, drums, backing vocals), and Julie Savoy (backing vocals). Many of them grew up playing together in Detroit’s vibrant music scene during the 60s and 70s, bouncing between jazz-fusion, hard rock, and everything in between.
The name “Spyderhuff” is an ode to the unsung heroes of Detroit’s automotive history. It draws inspiration from Ed “Spider” Huff, a brilliant but largely unknown electrician who worked closely with Henry Ford in the 1890s, contributing to the creation of Ford’s early ignition systems. Much like their namesake, Spyderhuff celebrates the artistry and grit found behind the scenes, staying true to a raw and authentic spirit in both their music and identity.
Released on October 18th, 2024, “Everybody Needs a Dog” marks the latest chapter in Spyderhuff’s journey, showcasing their mastery of swampy, psychedelic blues-rock. This four-track EP is a sonic embodiment of a laid-back night drive or a lively backyard gathering, offering listeners a smooth blend of rich, soulful grooves and intricate musicianship. With every listen, the band’s deep connection to Detroit’s musical roots and love for genre-blending becomes unmistakably clear.
Everybody Needs A Dog EP Track List:
Come Take The Bones:
“Come Take The Bones” is the opening track of Spyderhuff’s EP “Everybody Needs a Dog”, and it sets a compelling tone for the project. The track takes listeners on a journey through the weariness of growing older, both in its lyrical content and its sonic design. Initially, the eerie ambient soundscape might lead one to expect a melancholic ballad, but this expectation is quickly subverted. As the song progresses, it transforms into a rhythmically catchy composition that draws listeners in with its engaging structure. This clever shift in musical direction keeps listeners intrigued from the start.
Musically, “Come Take The Bones” is a well-crafted piece that stands out for its irresistible charm. The band builds an immersive experience by layering different instruments in a way that feels intentional and harmonious. The arrangement allows each instrument to shine without overwhelming the others, creating a sonically captivating piece. There’s a richness in the way the instruments interact, gradually building upon each other and enhancing the emotional weight of the track. This careful layering gives the song a polished, professional feel that draws listeners deeper into its rhythmic pulse.
The vocal delivery in “Come Take The Bones” complements the instrumental composition perfectly. Rather than being overshadowed by the catchy music, the vocals add another layer of depth, with each voice blending seamlessly. The layered vocals create a dynamic interplay that enriches the overall listening experience. Spyderhuff manages to strike a balance between the engaging music and the heartfelt vocal performance, ensuring that both elements enhance one another, creating a track that is both emotionally and musically rich.
Future:
The track “Future” from Spyderhuff’s EP “Everybody Needs a Dog” serves as a fitting conclusion to the project, offering listeners a glimpse into what lies ahead through a distinctly retro lens. The song opens with a captivating instrumental rhythm that sets a solid foundation, led by a steady beat that drives the track forward. This rhythm creates an engaging groove, preparing the listener for what’s to come. As the vocals enter, they add texture and depth, aligning perfectly with the atmosphere the song aims to evoke. The balance between the male and female voices enhances the song’s dynamic, their harmonies complementing the instrumental backdrop while maintaining a unique character that feels fresh yet nostalgically familiar.
One of the standout features of “Future” is the inclusion of a commentator whose voice threads through the track like a news reporter, giving it a narrative dimension. This spoken commentary adds to the retro-futuristic vibe of the song, providing a sense of storytelling that feels like a broadcast from a distant past imagining what the future might hold. It’s an interesting layer that not only complements the song’s structure but also adds an element of social commentary, heightening the listener’s engagement with the unfolding narrative. The way the voices are used, particularly the haunting texture attached to their delivery, gives the track an unsettling yet intriguing aura, as though the future being described is both fascinating and ominous.
Musically, “Future” is a sonically rich track, packed with well-layered sounds that seamlessly blend together. Each instrumental and vocal element is thoughtfully arranged, creating a dense, immersive listening experience. The interplay of sounds, from the steady rhythmic beat to the textured vocals and the interspersed commentary, all contribute to a track that feels carefully crafted and deeply atmospheric. By combining elements of the past with a forward-looking narrative, “Future” closes the EP with a sense of mystery and curiosity, leaving the listener with plenty to think about and an appreciation for Spyderhuff’s unique sound.
This EP highlights the collaborative talents of core members Tom Kuhr, Don Beyer, Joey Gaydos Sr., Joey Gaydos Jr., Tony Mitchell, and James Carmichael Dooley. As with their earlier works, Spyderhuff’s sound here is thick with layers—vocals, guitars, and percussion weaving effortlessly through the EP’s lush production. Each track on the EP offers something distinct yet cohesive, making it an engaging listening experience from start to finish. The songs are not only musically diverse but also vocally rich, revealing the band’s thoughtful approach to melody and harmony. While steeped in the traditions of blues and rock, the tracks also venture into unexpected territory, hinting at the group’s jazz and experimental influences from their formative years.
Spyderhuff’s ability to craft music that is both nostalgic and fresh shines through clearly on this release. The EP doesn’t try to overwhelm but instead embraces subtle complexity—rewarding those who lean in and listen carefully. Whether you’re cruising under city lights or unwinding with friends at sunset, “Everybody Needs a Dog” makes for the perfect soundtrack. Spyderhuff continues to demonstrate why they remain relevant after all these years. This EP is not just a collection of songs—it’s an invitation to lose yourself in the band’s musical world. If you’re looking for music that strikes a perfect balance between groove, soul, and a touch of psychedelia, “Everybody Needs a Dog” should be on your playlist.
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