“But as explorative as the unit has always been, the new iteration is freer, tapping into unexpected hallmarks such as Steely Dan, the Beach Boys and Supertramp, without sacrificing the originality and intricacy in the songwriting.”

“All 11 tracks on the album drip the blood of the decade’s quintessential rock, but with an infusion of ’80s feel-good pop. Rich, three-part harmonies bring everything together.”

“Together they come up with music that strikes a nice balance between being musically and lyrically creative and yet likely to have wide appeal. There are touches of retro sounds, but originality dominates. The group often shows some cleverness, and yet it's fairly subtle and unpretentious.”

“Invitingly melodic and filled with verses that address the world as it is and still comes out the other side smiling – sometimes weary but always a touch wiser - this debut is an exciting first step for some of the most talented West Coast players far too few people outside their converted inner circle know, a rock unit ready to rub shoulders with their obvious influences like Tom Petty and Wilco”

“sounds like Steely Dan if it had been more of a roots band, writing nice, melodic tunes that appeal to fans of intelligent rock. Formerly a jam band, they’ve evolved into a much tighter unit, playing guitar solos that George Harrison or Tom Petty’s Mike Campbell could have created. They know how to harmonize and arrange, and in an earlier era would have been all over the charts”

“A former “jam” band from Seattle, The True Spokes have forsaken long solos based on groove for more concise songs that concentrate on tight arrangements. The makeover isn’t as dramatic as it sounds, as the band’s playing gets room (especially guitar) and all the previous emphasis on jamming assures some impressive musicianship. Plus, the influence of The Grateful Dead is never far away. The real surprise, though, is that The True Spokes turn out to be good writers. Fans of Steely Dan without the dryness might like “Too Wrong,” while there are many other traces (from a light Motown shuffle to The Band’s soulful ambiance) and playing/production details to make the record a keeper.”