Blue States - Man Mountain

After the marvelous Nothing Under the Sun, Blue States gives us their second album Man Mountain, and it’s somewhat disappointing. Even though the first track, “Metro Sound,” brings the same sonic quality that made their first album so wonderful, the rest of the album slips by with nothing that really catches your attention. Part of the problem may be the vocals; while Tahita Bulmer is a competent enough singer, Mr. Dragazis may be relying too much on the vocals to carry the song, rather than having the song present for the vocals to enhance. “Only Today” is poppy and moves beautifully but leaves and empty feeling after it finishes. The chorus effect on “Season Song” is an intriguing touch, but it pales in comparison to any one of the tracks on Nothing Under the Sun. It’s not to say that this album is bad -- I was simply hoping for another stunner.