LONDON, UK (Top40 Charts/ Vision Music Promotions) Manufactured Consent, the third release from London based septet
State of Play, touches on most genres without sounding like any. Fusing elements of blues-based rock, socially conscious hip hop, and electronic influences, the band produces an utterly distinctive signature sound. Aiming for mass appeal while remaining anti-populist, SOP harness the tension between their politically leaning lyrics and anthemic rock music, and with the assistance of Sonic Boom Six's
James Routh on production duties, deliver three tracks, bursting with purpose.
Opener and lead track 'All Alright' is the best manifestation of the band's philosophy to date, with Anthony Kent's synth lines twisting triumphantly around the chorus. The hook line "I'm tired of living like it's all alright/ like the wars they fight don't make them criminals" could hardly be more relevant as the ideas of law and justice in society become increasingly far removed, brought to life by Missy's clipped vocal delivery.
The verse hinges around a riff that's catchy and biting in equal measure and MC A-Mens carries the verses with a self-assured swagger into a hard-hitting middle section. Fernandes on guitar shreds through a tight set of figures whilst Ahmar (S.V) on vocals makes the impassioned declaration that it's "do or die", while Ben Spooner's beat builds towards the climax.
Things start a little more calmly on the following track, 'People of Now'. Synths swell and the bass, manned by Will Kerr, picks out a vibrant pattern as SOP transmit their call to arms to the lost generation, to "be the free radical atom in the chain/a radioactive activist, catalyst for change". The vocal trio, whose three-pronged attacks make the band's live shows such high energy affairs, coordinate intricately in the middle eight, weaving a tapestry of overlapping lines before the final chorus explodes into its half-time finale.
The future-facing sense of hope instilled by this anthem doesn't last long. On the blood and thunder closer, 'Freedom of Speech', inspiration turns to indignation. The track announces itself with urgency, with A-Mens vocal delivery saturated with intent. Every word lands like a haymaker, leaving the listener to stagger punch-drunk into a chorus that, when it finally breaks, is awash with riotous danceability, with vocalists Missy and Ahmar (S.V.) soaring in tandem over a restless drum and bass beat.
EP Launch @ The Garage (main room) Friday the 23rd May - onstage at 9.20pm supported by Vaude Villians. Guest-list email:
[email protected]
www.stateofplayofficial.com
www.facebook.com/stateofplaymusic
www.twitter.com/sop_uk
www.youtube.com/user/stateofplayofficial
www.soundcloud.com/stateofplayofficial
