As I have mentioned many times before, I always find it difficult reviewing CDs from friends or former bands. If you don’t like the CD it can be difficult to articulate what you’re trying to say without offending anyone and if you do like it you’re accused of bias. I find that especially difficult when I listen to The Maple State, one of the first ever signings to my record label and still one of the most popular releases we’ve ever done. For me they’re a band that capture a particular time and mood in my life and I have very good memories of their ‘At Least Until We’ve Settled In’ EP. Times have obviously changed and they’re now signed to the major label distributed High Voltage label and have tweaked and changed their ways from a less synth-based sound to a more bass-driven indie recording.
I’ll be honest – I didn’t enjoy the 3-tracker which preceeded this release. I found the single to be catchy as always, but the b-sides just didn’t hit the spot at all. Dreary and passionless, I was worried the band’s newer direction may not be one that appeals. Thankfully this EP is a return to form. When the band are faster and more energetic they’re at their best, as emphasised on ‘We Swear By The Light Life’ which is a foot-tapping classic. It’s perhaps the best bridge between old and new TMS, plugging the three-year gap between releases.
Interestingly the bass really does play a major part in the production. It’s very high in the mix, making for a slightly scuzzy, dirtier sound. I’m guessing a move away from the shinier synth-heavy EP and their many other sessions in between was deliberate, but I’m not totally sold on whether or not I’m completely won over by this new mix. But it does suit the songs. Each one is very good, no two ways about it. Greg’s vocal performance is outstanding, his vocals pretty unique and really finding their niche. The addition of Richard as an extra guitarist also gives the band the chance to play around with the riffs and fills and makes this record sound more interesting and less formulaic.
Are The Maple State the best band in the country at what they do? Yes.
Are The Maple State the best band in the country full stop? Not yet, but they can be.
I don’t know whether the band have taken too long between releasing their EPs to build on the successive big tours they played on. But the world really is theirs for the taking and their talent is undoubted. With some big players now in their team they have the backing to go as far as they want. If they put the effort in and get a little bit of luck they could make a major impact. Let’s hope the album, when/if it comes, is as good as this.