State of Undress CD Review

State of Undress
Livin’ it, Lovin’ it
Rosebud Music SOU005
*****
Traditional and modern folk effortlessly blended together
State Of Undress are an exciting folk band who effortlessly bring songs to life with their blend of music, singing and enthusiasm/energy. Between them the band has many musical influences like U2, Alison Krauss, Show Of Hands and The Clash. Listening to the songs on this album it is easy to see where these influences come into play. Charlie Rose takes centre stage on lead vocals and percussion. The other band members – Alan Rose, Samantha Jane, Malcolm Windett and Keith Fletcher play a variety of different musical instruments as well as offering background vocals on many of the songs. The violin, cello, African drum and guitar all make an appearance on this new seven song album. The album starts off with One More Shot (of you boy) – an exciting choice for an opening song. This is an up-tempo song, which showcases Charlie’s vocal talents. Charlie has an exciting vocal range. Her voice brings to mind many talented female artists including Norma Waterson, Barbara Dickson and Bonnie Tyler. Some great instrumentation backs Charlie up on this rock infused folk song. The overall atmosphere this song creates reminds me strongly of the amazing folk/rock group Rock Salt and Nails. Plenty More Fish In The Sea sees the mood settle a little. There is a strong folk feel to this second song. Once again Charlie is allowed to shine on lead vocals. Mudeford Mood is a song about a fishing village in Dorset near to where the band comes from. The title of the album originates from this song. The band has said that a lot of their musical inspiration comes from this small village. This is a slow song with unobtrusive instrumentation. A lot of atmosphere and emotion flows through the words and music contained in this charming little gem of a song. Raggle Taggle Gypsy is a popular folk song and has been covered by many famous folk artists including The Poozies and Eliza Carthy. State Of Undress put their own stamp on this classic song. The song is given a bit of a face lift and has a much heavier sound to it. Charlie’s vocals add depth to the song and really bring it to life. This truly modern and somewhat crazy version of this song might not be to every ones taste but I think it does the song justice and gives it a wonderful eccentric sound. The Love Detective sees Malcolm Windett sharing vocals with Charlie Rose. This song sounds like it should be performed on a big stage in some West End production. This is a pleasant song with a slight jazz feel to it. Country Girl sees Alan Rose duet with Charlie. Alan’s vocals bring instantly to mind Ashley Hutchings. Alan has a great story telling voice. This song has a strong folk feel to it both in terms of the vocals and instrumentation used. All too soon the album comes to an end with a strong song called Red Waters, written by Charlie and Alan. Charlie’s vocals are dazzling on this charming song, which could almost be called the real highlight of the album – maybe the band have saved the best till last?