AMG Review of Very Thing You Treasure

Jon Azpiri
All Music Guide

Spike Priggen paid his dues in the New York scene for nearly two decades, playing in several bands including the Liquor Giants, the Hello Strangers, and Dumptruck. At 37, Priggen finally released his debut solo album, which demonstrates his considerable versatility. Priggen effortlessly blends his singer/songwriter sensibility with everything from power pop to punk. On tracks like "Alright," Priggen shows a nastier edge along with some solid guitar work provided by himself and Jon Graboff. On the quieter tracks, such as "She Used to Be My Baby," Priggen explores the common themes of lost love and regret. While some of the tracks have a definite pop sensibility, it's unlikely that The Very Thing You Treasure finds a mass audience. That's a shame because Priggen certainly deserves it.