Leeds five-piece create a real gem of a debut album.
As a music journalist, I receive countless albums from artists that are new to me, and needless to say some have considerably more talent than others. Every now and then, something particularly special will stand out from the crowd, a diamond amongst the rocks. The debut self-titled album from Leeds five-piece Stateless is one such gem. It truly is delightful.
Consisting of extremely emotive vocals, thick bass lines, sultry keys and an ambience created via turntables and live programming effects, this band have managed to fashion a sound that is both epic and solely their own. Perhaps best described as a luxurious cocktail of electronica, soundscapes and indie, every track on this album has it's own unique merits, such is the originality of the record. Standout tracks include the beautiful 'Bloodstream', with vocalist Chris James proclaiming "I think I might have inhaled you" in a way that makes you believe he is only singing for you. The slowly descending piano melody, combined with subtle drumbeat and rhythmic bass and almost pained vocals is mesmerising.
Recent debut single 'Exit' is carried by dreamy synth melodies interspersed with soaring strings, scratchy beats and soft vocals, resulting in a layered epic sounding piece of work. 'This Language' opens with dramatic, almost haunting violins, supplemented by an urgent drumbeat and various ambient effects. The violins dictate throughout the track, later joined by some jagged guitar work and some impressive rapping.
The progressive 'Bluetrace' appears to be a mellow affair, only to culminate in an explosive ending with thumping drums, mammoth bass and sheer volume bringing the track to a end, while album closer 'Inscape' captivates with its shimmering guitar, discrete drumbeat and swirling atmospheric instrumentation created via computers and synths.
Due to the originality of the sound, it's hard to pigeon-hole this album. However, with flashes of Coldplay intertwined with electronic beats and excellent atmospheric synths and effects, there is something here for everyone. Produced by Jim Abbiss of Arctic Monkeys and Kasabian fame, whilst claiming the renowned DJ Shadow amongst their fans, Stateless are set to make a serious mark in the remainder of 2007. A fantastic debut effort, excellent stuff.