Romantic States is a Baltimore band that plays minimalist, lo fi pop that strikes us as the sound we might encounter if Beat Happening and Yo La Tengo combined, slowed down and were fronted by a more talented (and melodic) version of Nico. And as good as the sound is on their new album,
Ballerina, the real treat may be the lyrical content. This is a band that drills down to the exposed nerve -- and then keeps drilling. Honesty is good; honesty can also be uncomfortable. But we can't look away when it sounds this good. Please listen to the album at the Bandcamp link and be sure to select the "lyrics" button. Our favorite songs are "Changed Your Mind", "Real Real Blonde", "XstrawberryX", "Son Of Barb", and "Ballerina". But you really don't want to miss any of them.
The original members of
Romantic States are guitarist Jim Triplett (of Videohippos) and vocalist Ilenia Madelaire (of Amor Fatigue). For this outing they add drummer Shawn Durham (Gauche/Snail Mail), and bassist Alan Everhart (Wildhoney/Dummy). Ilenia also drew the affecting cover art.
Ballerina is out now via Gentle Reminder Records.
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Bandcamp for Ballerina
Gentle Reminder Records
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