The Duke Spirit was formed in London in 2003 by guitarist Luke Ford (guitar) and vocalist Liela Moss (vocals), who'd met at art college in Cheltenham. Joined by bassist Toby Butler and guitarist Dan Higgins after moving to London, their debut EP, Roll, Spirit, Roll was released on City Rockers that year. It garnered positive reviews, which led ultimately to a contract with Polydor through James Oldham's hip Loog Records imprint.
'Cuts Across The Land' was produced by ex-Cocteau Twin Simon Raymonde and U2 producer Flood, taking the strident vocals of Moss and the chiming guitars of Higgins and Ford to create a dense, exciting sound. Containing five singles, including the UK Top 30 hit, 'Lion Rip', the group offered an exciting mixture of post-punk and heavy rock, creating their own, unique sound. Album standout and live favourite 'Love Is A Unfamiliar Name' typifies their approach.
TRACK LISTING
1. Cuts Across The Land
2. Stubborn Stitches
3. Darling, You're Mean
4. Win Your Love
5. Hello To The Floor
6. Bottom Of The Sea
7. Fades The Sun
8. You Were Born Inside My Heart
9. Lion Rip
10. Lovetones
11.Love Is An Unfamiliar Name
12. Red Weather
13. Dark Is Light Enough
14. So Good To Hear
15. Boot Hill (demo)
16. Take A Look Around
17. Souvenir
18. Now Be Still
19. Every Cell Can Tell
20. Honeysun
21. Scratching Around (demo)
22. Patients (demo)