Minnesota-based indie-pop visionaries Spaceport are quickly building momentum toward their upcoming full-length studio album, Cut The Lake. Following the release of their grand, expansive lead single “Switch” last month, the band has returned to offer a deeper look into the record’s sonic diversity with two brand-new tracks: “Lungs” and the centerpiece, “Sugar Moon.”
A Shift in Soundscapes
While “Switch” served as an ideal introduction to the band’s sweeping, cinematic pop sensibilities, the latest offerings reveal a more textured approach to their songwriting. “Lungs” is particularly striking, showcasing a pivot toward Americana and country-inflected arrangements. The track is anchored by mournful pedal steel guitar and regal, layered trumpet lines that provide a sophisticated backdrop for Arianna Wegley’s signature whispery, intimate vocal delivery.
The Evolution of “Sugar Moon”
The new single “Sugar Moon” acts as a compelling contrast. It begins with an understated, casual arrangement that belies the explosive emotional payoff waiting in its climax. On their official Substack, the band provided fans with a rare, candid look into the creative process behind the song.
“If you’re familiar with Ari’s instrumental discography, you may recognize Sugar Moon’s main melody from her song ‘Bicycle.’ Ari’s pandemic-era ambient phase is a keystone in the edifice of Spaceport,” the band shared. They further noted that the lyrics were a collaborative effort, specifically highlighting a spontaneous writing session at Lake Harriet that helped shape the song’s evocative imagery.
The recording process for Cut The Lake was defined by both high-stakes pressure and profound camaraderie. As the final track recorded at the legendary Pachyderm studios, “Sugar Moon” carries the weight of the band’s journey. According to the band, the song was born out of a moment of vulnerability, with a group huddle under the moonlight serving as the inspiration for the album’s eventual title.
Listen Now
Cut The Lake is officially slated for release on April 3rd via Aura Vortex. With its blend of ambient roots, country-tinged instrumentation, and indie-pop ambition, it is poised to be one of the most anticipated releases of the spring. Fans can pre-order the album via the link above.
