Production is an undervalued aspect for the everyday listener. If you don’t normally hear its effect on the music, listen to State Champion’s recently released album Fantasy Error.
Right off the bat on Fantasy Error, the listener is confronted with how effective great production choices can be. The windows were open at the Shelbyville home State Champion recorded and the crickets were chirping. You can practically see the band on the front porch greeting the night sky while recording in the fine Kentucky rural landscape.
State Champion brought a great alt-country sound with them out to the country. Think a sloppier, distorted Son Volt . The eight-track album includes three songs lasting longer than six minutes (and none under four minutes).
The back-to-back tracks of “There Is A Highlight Reel” and “No Pleasure” is spectacular while transitioning from a true country cajon and acoustic song to a power chord, rocking song. Fantasy Error is a great example of doing what feels right. Record in the yard? Sure. Keep the good vibes going? Definitely. I might actually open my window right now...
Oh and big brownie points to any band that uses Wayne Blackshear in their profile picture like State Champion does.
State Champion will be celebrating the record release with a show at Decca this Friday. Show starts at 10 with Sapat kicking it off. A suggested donation is the admission price for the evening. In anticipation, check out this teaser from the album.
Photo courtesy of State Champion Facebook page.