Retrouvé is a split between long running South Bend, IN bands SPACESHIPS and analecta. After a decade of playing shows together, the two projects have finally offered their first collaboration.

Retrouvé, (French for “Found”) is almost as long in history as the relationship between the two bands. SPACESHIPS was approached several years back for a split by a now-defunct label. After recording a few old songs for the split around the Pillars sessions (“Gaze” was first written before SPACESHIPS was even a proper band, “Enough” was a new composition), the project was shelved after a number of other bands fell through.

The split consists of a total of five tracks, the leading three by SPACESHIPS and the final two by analecta. The split opens with “Gaze” which knowing the history of how the track has been in existence since before SPACESHIPS was a proper band it is interesting to hear. Especially, if you are familiar with the material SPACESHIPS has released during their tenure. What makes it so unique is that it gives a glimpse of the early form of the band allowing insight in to how they have evolved creatively. “Enough” follows and shows a solid contrast to “Gaze” as it seems to have a more polished/full sound. SPACESHIPS rounds out their portion with “Carry On” which feels very different than what we would usually expect, but it feels like a natural progression with a slight shift in musical direction. It’s a fascinating track that further builds on what SPACESHIPS have accomplished so far.

analecta follows suit for their portion of the split with “Kaamos” which is a grand opus clocking at 8:15. Musically, it has a very full sound that creates a transcendent soundscape from start to finish as it peaks and valleys a couple of times keeping the listener on their toes on where it might go next. It flawlessly flows in to “Ikigai” which creates a similar soundscape, but yet carries a different atmospheric essence to it. This is much in part to the lyrics, as this is an element that has not previously existed on any other analecta recording. It adds an additional layer to an already remarkably layered track.

Between the offerings contributed by both SPACESHIPS and analecta Retrouvé is a solid offering that allows the five tracks have found a home so that they can be shared and experienced with the masses.

Retrouvé is available now on all major streaming platforms or you can order a limited edition cassette here through Friend Club Records.

You can follow SPACESHIPS on social media via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

You can follow analecta on social media via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.