Another State is a gripping new album from London-based band Seafarers, thematically following “people in transit,” as they navigate life — moving to a new locations in a physical context, and also emotionally. The act describes the characters depicted as “each one stuck somewhere between a strange sense of liberation and abandonment.” The production stirs in its frequent developments from quainter, lush pop and folk intertwining, into cathartic rises with rock-friendly edges.
An initially piano-driven ascent into chirpier guitars compels on the opening track “Bedwetters,” the melodic vocals aptly letting out: “And each story she tells is a story that they Might have lived or be living right now.” The album’s title track evokes the sense of transience right away: “Eye liner skyline, great escape / You’re moving to the suburbs in another state.” Heartfelt sentiments arise into a fully resonating “used to believe,” swell, where glistening guitars and piano combine seamlessly. Another State starts with a particularly strong one-two punch, and doesn’t let up in quality from there.
Amongst the numerous other highlights, “Melissa” is also a standout for its emotive force, described by the band as about “a childhood friend who got lost along the way.” The concluding line — “I’d call but it’s late and you’re probably asleep,” — is reflective of genuine concerns regarding past friends who may be in times of strife, though with that re-connection becoming encumbered by personal busy-ness and life’s chaos in general — perhaps serving as a reminder to connect with those who may need it. Another State is a moving, melodic achievement in songwriting from Seafarers.
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“Another State” and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
We discovered this release via MusoSoup, as part of the artist’s promotional campaign.
