Broken Spindles

**Broken Spindles** is the solo project of Joel Petersen, best known as the bassist for the iconic Omaha-based electronic rock band The Faint. Launched in the early 2000s, Broken Spindles blends brooding electronic beats with classical instrumentation like piano and cello, creating moody, cinematic soundscapes that feel both intimate and expansive. Their self-titled debut (2002) set the tone, but albums like *Kiss/Kick* (2011) and *inside/absent* showcase their evolution, weaving glitchy rhythms with haunting melodies. While sharing The Faint’s knack for dark, danceable textures, Petersen’s work here leans more introspective, pairing minimalist arrangements with emotional depth. Though quieter in output compared to his main band, Broken Spindles remains a fascinating outlet for Petersen’s experimental side.