The Heavenly States

The Heavenly States came together in 2002, united by a shared passion for complex and cathartic rock bursting with literate, provocative lyricism. A series of acclaimed albums and a seemingly endless capacity for touring – including a landmark 2005 trek to Egypt and Libya – confirmed their status as one of America's fearless music outfits, flying the flag for self-determination and intelligent, energetic rock 'n' roll.

After spending much of 2008 on tour following the release of their critically acclaimed and top-ten album Delayer, the band pondered their next move, wondering how best to follow such an ambitious collection. The inspiration struck to attempt an EP, in the tradition of band favorites like Just Like Heaven, Sonic Youth, Stink, Metal Circus, Nervous Breakdown, Watery Domestic, and oh yes, Magical Mystery Tour. Their [2011] record, Oui Camera Oui, shows the short form can pack a powerful punch. Lead tracks, “Model Son” and “Berlin Wall,” (“Gorgeous” Spin; “A Majestic Rocker” Rolling Stone) are getting repeat spins at radio stations from the USA to Berlin.

With a sound, attitude, and point of view previously likened by reviewers and critics to Pavement, The Clash, Hüsker Dü, Ted Leo and The Replacements, Oui Camera Oui features all of the band's musical traits: hooks, sing-a-longs, lush string and keyboard arrangements, well-wrought lyrics, ample melodies, huge drumming and layers of raucous guitars. Mixed by prior States collaborator John Agnello (The Hold Steady, Sonic Youth, Dinosaur Jr.), Oui also features special guest vocal performances by Britt Daniel (Spoon) and comedian Eugene Mirman (HBO's Flight of the Conchords).

The Heavenly States produce songs imbued with emotional complexity, driving energy, and plenty of spit and fire. At times earnest and vulnerable, at other times infused with grit and fury, THS songs range from simple SST-inspired grenades to works of layered and symphonic sweep. Some songs recall the folk and cowpunk of THS favorite, the band X, while still others exude the cool remove of acts like Spoon, Steve Malkmus, or Talking Heads. Whatever the tone of a particular song, a commitment to melody always shines through. [Michael Krugman]