| Athens, Georgia sure has changed over the years. Initially
known for the ever-so-tiring sounds of bands like The B-52s (snore) and
R.E.M. (gag and vomit)...the city has come a long, LONG way. Nowadays...instead
of being a flourishing empire of dumb dance music and overly sappy jangle
pop...the city now boasts a whole slew of superb pop bands. Add Empire State
to the list. The band consists of three fellows who have a mature yet somewhat
innocent approach to pop production. The recording quality is nop notch,
and the songs range from one end of the spectrum to the other. The vocals
(and particularly the harmonies) are flawless. While the straightforward
stuff is cool enough...we actually like the most peculiar things like progressive
(mostly) instrumental piece that is throroughly engrossing. If you're looking
for throwaway slop pop, go onto the next band. If you seek both substance
AND style...this band will be very much to your liking. Quite intriguing
to say the least. See the band's web site at http://www.empirestatic.com.
(Rating: 5) |