Following two successful EPs, Melbourne’s The Paper Kites have stayed very true to their original style on States. They’ve also managed to create a full-length album that is both sophisticated and completely engaging.
Indie-folk has a tendency to become monotonous when it’s the only genre on a record – but the Paper Kites haven’t let this happen. Each song is distinctly separate from the one before.
The delicate finger-picked indie-folk sound of EPs Woodland and Young North is still apparent, but it’s been well and truly expanded. More electric sounds are introduced, as well as some experimentation with keys and synths.
“A Lesson From Mr Gray” relies heavily (and effectively) upon percussion and bass guitar sounds, which is a new thing from the usually melody-orientated band.
Another noticeable development is their use of female vocals. Christina Lacy’s voice is just beautiful, and has strengthened since she performed “The Mortal Boy King” on Woodland.
“Cold Kind Hand” and “Living Color” (with its bizarre American spelling) also feature Lacy’s voice, which gives the songs a beautiful atmosphere and provides a real contrast with the rest of the record.
Frontman Sam Bentley’s vocals seems to have become even dreamier since the last release. The lyrics conjure up the most gorgeous images, his voice adding to the ambience and impact of the words.
His harmonies with Lacy, always a Paper Kites highlight, have also become less conventional and more experimental, which is an interesting and enjoyable development.
States is an admirable debut album. The Paper Kites have come a long way since their EPs, yet managed to keep the unique style that makes their music such a joy to listen to.
