SML – “Roundabouts”

International Anthem are stacking essentials this year as they bring another live curio to the table for 2026. An effective companion piece both to Jeff Parker’s recently released live-born LP, Happy Today, and SML’s own studio stunner from last year; a new live album proves just why the IVtet-adjacent band is one of the best. Spontaneous Music Live was constructed in much the same way as the band’s two albums, starting with an improvisational core. Unlike those two records, though, there’s no picking through the pieces, no filtering and fussing. This is SML set fire in circular formations, an unrestrained record that lets them tear into groove over the longform track. The record was recorded live at Zebulon, captured to tape by Bryce Gonzales, who has been integral in translating the Jeff Parker IVtet’s works from the room to the reels over the past few years. The new record lets the listener live in the room with SML, swirling through the sweat over two 20+ minute tracks of circular euphoria. The new album is out now from International Anthem.

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