World Contact Day

Andy Dragazis Blue States project has been categorized as downtempo/trip-hop ever since its lounge-friendly debut appeared in 2000, but most of the albums that followed have primarily consisted of live instrumentation rather than samples, and the sound has shifted towards a sort of pastoral, psychedelic pop. Sixth album World Contact Day is partially named in reference to "Calling Occupants of Interplanetary Craft," the 70s progressive pop classic made famous by the Carpenters, and while its nowhere near as ambitious or strange as that epic single, its still an exquisitely arranged work with an otherworldly touch. The vocal melodies recall British folk-rock as well as the dreamy side of 90s alternative pop, producing a curiously out-of-time effect. The production is as languid and chillout-friendly as past Blue States releases, but with Baroque pop touches that might be easy to miss if you arent paying close enough attention. A handful of excellent songs stand out and call for repeated listens. "Warning Signs" is an enchanting number about self-care that circles back to the refrain "Its only time that stands in our way." "Serial Recall" is more haunting and downcast, winding through fading memories of past lives. "Alarms" is a much sunnier flashback to the more psychedelic-influenced corner of Madchester-style alternative dance, with light vocals and a gently bobbing beat, as well as horns and strings adding a subtly majestic touch. "Science or Fiction" is pillowy and a touch dramatic, with staccato horns introducing lyrics referring to the infamous Piltdown Man archaeological hoax of 1912. Blue States music is both mysterious and familiar, drawing from the sounds of several different eras while maintaining a distinctive mood and character. ~ Paul Simpson

ピペッツなどのプロデュース、スキャンサリエスや本名でのリリースなど、ジャンル問わずその才能を発揮し続けるアンディ・ドラガジスのメイン・ユニットによる6年ぶり6作目。ゆったりと時間が流れる先行曲"Trust In Wires"や女性ヴォーカルと儚いストリングスが郷愁を誘う"Alarms"など、国籍不問な世界観にどこか懐かしさを覚える。異星人とのコンタクトを試みる日にちなんで命名されたというタイトルも絶妙。
bounce (C)野村有正