Album Notes

Before Spencer Bell's early death, in December 2006, the artist/musician recorded several EPs and full-length albums while living in Detroit (MI), Fleetwood (NY), Brooklyn (NY), and Madison (WI). Inspired by Mason Jennings, Syd Barrett, early Bowie, hippie culture, noise makers, typewriters, and energy, Bell's organic folk-rock-bluesy blend of songwriting is both modern and timeless, original and melodic. Feudal Brutal and the American Dream is Spencer Bell's final solo album and it perfectly encapsulates his unique songwriting ability and thematic storytelling. Brutally honest and self-aware, but never melodramatic or clichéd, the lyrics represent a rather minimalist take on life. Bell's stories are sometimes metaphorical and other times straightforward, as he sings of of heartbreaks, current hang-ups, his cat, life experiences, and “facing a boredom that borders on horrible.” Many songs, which involve beautiful harmonies, experimental voice effects, and a range of emotions, offer optimistic insight and a positive, even amusing, attitude, such as "Lonesome Ballad of a Lonesome Boy," with the chorus, “That’s me, I’m the lyricist, it’s not my job, it’s my disposition. I gotta let you know this life is rich. We’re not alone, you see it’s really me that I’m trying to convince.” Visit spencerbellmemorial.com to learn more about Spencer's Legacy.