The Verve, in spirit? (8)
I believe the answer is:
vitality
This clue is a double definition.
'the verve' is the first definition.
('vitality' can be a synonym of 'verve')
'spirit?' is the second definition.
(vitality is a kind of spirit)
'in' acts as a link.
(Other definitions for vitality that I've seen before include "Liveliness" , "Life force and animation" , "go" , "Vibrancy, energy" , "Vigour; ability to prosper" .)