Don't Whisper Lies from
Astaire is not only a stunning debut release, but an impressive set of songs from this brother/sister duo who are only in their early 20s. When Erica Driscoll isn't hypnotizing listeners with her
Julee Cruise-like falsetto and playing keyboards on select tracks, younger brother Bruce Driscoll is strict with his various instrumentation. The two touch upon their Brazilian heritage for a flirty, dance-pop style of songs, and it's not too far from
Chase's work with
Ivy and the more sultry moments from
the Cardigans and
Saint Etienne. From the spellbinding synth beats and Erica's airy vocals on the EP's standout track "L-L-Love" to the softer pop of "Right Where I Want You,"
Astaire don't lose grasp of their club-inspired backdrop.
Ivy bandmates
Andy Chase and
Adam Schlesinger assist in fleshing out
Astaire's dreamy synth pop sound on "Weightless."
Schlesinger plays drums while
Chase helps with production, mixing, and adds backing vocals to this stunning track, and again, fleshing out the pop art that is this five-song EP. Legendary conductor/arranger Zé Luis Oliveira is all class with his strings, flute and percussion arrangements on "Don't Whisper Lies," further complementing Bruce and Erica's vocal collaboration. Erica's girlishly charming vocals accentuate the album's overall innocence, for such a theme supports
Astaire's simplistic, yet structured approach the first time out.
Astaire's production work in particular so clear cut.
Don't Whisper Lies speaks for itself. ~ MacKenzie Wilson