Review: State Champs - The Acoustic Things EP

“Elevated” is the first track on the EP. The original version of the song was the lead single off of the band The Finer Things and is one of the ones that defines their sound. Nevertheless, this new version doesn’t fail to deliver, even with the high expectations surrounding it. It starts off the EP perfectly, with the guitar parts really showing through and frontman Derek DiScanio’s vocals finally being showcased.
The vocals have to be one of the best parts about The Acoustic Things. With normal pop-punk sound, there is little attention paid to the ability of the vocalist, with the focus more on guitar solos and heavy drum beats, and while it’s not a bad thing that instrumental parts are celebrated (as it’s these parts that make up most of the song, especially in pop-punk), it’s rare that the vocals are appreciated and heard properly (especially when they’re as good as DiScanio’s).
The next song on the EP is “Deadly Conversation”. Along with the follow up “Hard To Please”, it maintains the high standard set by the opening track. These songs are somewhat overshadowed by others, but both still have that statement sound State Champs have managed to build throughout their career. The guitar melodies are excellent in their simplicity and the already phenomenal lead vocals are complimented exceptionally by the harmonies and backing vocals.
Track four on The Acoustic Things is “Simple Existence”. Many fans may remember live performances of this song with We Are The In Crowd’s leading lady Taylor Jardine, and while the acoustic version does not feature her, it does not mean it’s any less of an amazing track. There are many fans who favour it (myself included) and it can be said that you will not be disappointed. Stripped back, the song still sounds as strong as the original and continues to display the band’s skill when it comes to recording acoustically.
The last “old” tune on the EP is “Easy Enough”. This track is a catchy pop-punk song that will have any listener singing long to every word by its end. Even after being put into a simple acoustic form, DiScanio still puts as much passion into his vocals, making the song as powerful as the original.
There are also two new tracks featured alongside those previously-released. Both are exceptional and portray the band’s talent while also showing that they’re able to pull off more than the loud pop-punk songs both they and their fans are used to. They show a more emotional side to the group that hasn’t yet been seen and doesn’t lose State Champs’ original sound, which is sure to please both old and new fans alike.
“Leave You In The Dark” is a slight change from the band’s normal sound, however, it champions DiScanio’s vocal talent better than any of the other tracks. Closing The Acoustic Things is “If I’m Lucky”, and this, for me, has to be the EP’s standout track. Suggesting that the band can go into a slightly different direction, it’s not is too far off their current sound, comforting old fans whilst also catching the attention of some new ones.
Overall, The Acoustic Things is an acoustic masterpiece. It has everything a piece of music should: great guitar, strong lyrics and killer vocals. Those who are new to the pop-punk scene, and those who aren’t, are sure to love it, playing it time after time and never getting bored. It’s a collection of acoustic tracks that is a refreshingly easy listen and is nearly flawless.
Download: If I’m Lucky
4/5
By Shannon Morton
