speed of dark

Yesterday City-State of Washington, D.C. released their first full-length CD, Monument, the follow-up to last year's EP Wolves + 4, and a work that better showcases their strengths. The attention to production on this CD has taken the band a major leap toward a cleaner, more refined sound. City-State seems to be more focused and have a more unified sound than previously, while not losing the beautiful melodies that made the EP so promising.

Instrumentally City-State is similar to Coldplay and Interpol (as in "C'Mere" and "Untitled"), but in both comparisons I much prefer Jim Anderson's earnest, echo-y vocals to Chris Martin's thin, reedy whines or Paul Banks's sharp, forced barks. My only (small) complaint is that I would like to hear Jim's lyrics more clearly, but I understand the mystique that is generated by having them be a little lost in the mix.

The seven new songs are all characterized by rich layered guitars of Forrest Yingling on lead, Anderson on rhythm, and Daryl Marco on bass, and firmly anchored by John Malhinha on drums and percussion. Yingling is a new addition since the first album and definitely an asset.

"Great Lakes" starts off with some plinky keys and later includes strings that build to a climactic ending with peals of Yingling's guitar. A repeated feature in several of the songs is cascading waterfalls of descending notes that will carry you away. The best example of that is "This Place," which starts off with those rippling notes and also includes string accompaniment, but both MP3s below also have it as well as the lovely "Arlanda Terminal." "Idea" features lots of Marco's fuzzy, overdriven bass. Each track is a fully-developed and satisfying facet that builds to a work of haunting beauty.

Along with the new songs, the CD contains two remixes of three songs from last year's EP, which is a nice touch. "You Wait/Wolves" remix is a collaboration with A Study in Her, a Philadelphia outfit. For an example of the sizzle that results, check Zipper Girl (ASiH remix, 2006).

From Monument:
Mary
The Dakota

MySpace | Website | Label: Liberty Fuse
Buy: Amazon.com | EMusic | iTunes

Scheduled shows:
June 2 - the Khyber (Philadelphia, PA)
June 16 - Galaxy Hut (Arlington VA)
July 28 - The Red & The Black (Washington DC)

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