No dark shadows in this debut

Many times the question has been asked, just what would Phish sound like if they were a good band? Well, one option might be the Midstates, the band formed from the wake of Novasonic Down Hyperspace. Choosing to sound psychedelic through the studio rather than counting on constant melodic reiteration has always been and will always be a good idea. The Calumet City, Ill. band's debut is a glorious ode to orchestrated pop in the vain of Grandaddy and the infamous Flaming Lips. With the melodies always attempting to reach the perfect crescendo, Shadowing Ghosts certainly isn't loose. Singer Paul Heintz sings with a gentle inflection of recompense that recalls Trey Anastasio. That combined with the soft lyrics, listening to the Midstates can feel like a nice pat on the head. The lack of rhythm and the meticulously crafted melodies are perfect in their own tiny universe, though. The careful nature of the album doesn't take away from the fact that it is brilliant dope music. Nothing is messy or confusing and there are sing-a-long choruses too. Theramins, chimes, a choir of friends all ringing the rhymes of the deep in perfect harmony.