Blue States - The Soundings
[Memphis Industries]

Following their critically acclaimed debut 'Nothing Changes Under The Sun', and the 2002 success that was 'Man Mountain', Blue States return with new LP, 'The Soundings'. After the recent departure single, which shares a similar theme to the album as a whole, Andy Dragazis has managed to both evolve, yet maintain the original Blue States way with sound.

Although countless musicians suffer from the dreaded third album writer's block, Blue States have reinvented themselves majestically in their bid to constantly progress, even rivalling their first masterpiece. They've caught the directness and immediacy of a live performance, while shying away from the beats that established previous releases. It's a joyous collection of sinister guitar works, orchestral arrangements and the all-important, anthemic crowd pleasers.

From trip-hop chill-out, to potential indie megastars within the course of only three albums is not only a daring, and often foolish approach, but something they do with ease. But whether or not the old fan-base will warm to 'The Soundings' is not really of high importance, a whole new breed of convertees is waiting to happen. A record that's not only bold and beautifully emotive, but already sounds like this year's major success story.