The Heavenly States

Chronique

There's nothing better to highlight a sunny summer afternoon than a healthy dose of upbeat pop-rock. The Heavenly States may not always maintain the bright exterior of the Beach Boys, but the group's jangly guitars and airy vocals nonetheless leave a cheery residue. The bouncy "The Story Of" kicks things off on a happy note, with a chorus that jubilantly harmonizes on a lyric that strangely sounds like, "Everybody's gonna die today." The melancholy "Beyond the Great Beyond" floats like a lost afternoon from long ago. Bassist Matt Dickey, keyboardist Genevieve Gagon, drummer Jeremy Gagon, and guitarist Ted Nesseth insert mellower ballads like "My Friends" and "Cumulous to Nebulous" between the poppier numbers, keeping a good balance. The arrangements offer a nice blend of harder-edged rock guitars, synthesizers, and magnetic harmony. The hard rocking "Car Wash" reminds one of Ben Folds Five at their most aggressive, while the closer, "Hangar," captures a gentle, resigned mood. The Heavenly States are good with a hook and an unusual lyrical twist, and solid songs, like the forceful "American Borders," shows up late in the program. With three versatile vocalists, likable material, and a distinct sound, The Heavenly States have crafted a likable debut that will please fans of aggressive, smart pop.
© Ronnie D. Lankford, Jr. /TiVo