I will be forever haunted, it seems, by the time I missed Spiritualized. It was a few years ago, here in Portland. I showed up to the Roseland around 10:30. Fucking thing was over. People were streaming out. GODDAMNIT!

That was the Amazing Grace tour, I think.

After that, singer/lead-man/ex-Spaceman Jason Piece nearly died and I began to wonder if my chances to see one of my favorites were running out. You never know when someone who has his “breakfast right off of a mirror” might simply shuffle off. Thankfully Pierce has returned to productive, touring strength.

Unfortunately, for those of us who don’t live in southern California or the Europe, we’re going to have to keep waiting (Spirtualized has only two US dates, one at Coachella and a warm up in San Diego).

So we’re left with a consolation prize—not perfect, but exciting in it’s own right—A new album, Songs in A&E. You can here the single, “Soul on Fire” on the band’s myspace.

You can also check out “I Gotta Fire” right here.

“Soul on Fire” has the classic Spirtualized sound, but there’s added optimistic breath to the thing… Tempting and perhaps cliche to wonder if the near-death experience changed a life-long addict who often seemed trapped beneath himself.. But certainly it is possible.

Can’t wait for that album. It comes out May 8th. Even more excited for the day I finally see Spiritualized live. It will happen. Fuck being haunted.