And Nothing Hurt is the first album in six years from British space rock heroes Spiritualized. It’s also potentially the last Spiritualized record according to their leader. Written recorded in the home of mastermind and musical astronaut J. Spaceman, it would be a fitting close to their catalog if that turns out to be the case.
As the cathartic title suggests, the record washes away much of the death and drugs and anxiety of previous album for a more comforting line of existential meditation; as if to say, “We may be tiny specks on a rock floating through space, but we may as well try to enjoy the ride.” Single “Here It Comes (The Road) Let’s Go” captures this sentiment perfectly.
Though less conceptual, epic and painstakingly crafted than previous Spiritualized albums, Pierce enters an unprecedented state of intimacy while effortlessly capturing the classic Spiritualized sound. Whether or not there’s a return voyage, And Nothing Hurt is another cosmic ride you’ll be glad you took.
Score: 🚀🚀🚀🚀/5
Ryan is a writer, editor and vinyl collector currently based in Los Angeles. He started Mini Music Critic in 2017.