First Steps Into [CD]

On 2007's FIRST STEPS INTO, the U.K. electronica act Blue States offers up another chilled-out set in the Air/Zero 7 vein. Essentially a one-man band--that one man being London producer/multi-instrumentalist Andy Dragazis--Blue States excels at dreamy trip-hop-influenced tunes ("Look to Your Laurels") that occasionally incorporate a subtle shoegaze influence ("Allies"). Personnel: Felix Tanner (viola); Kate Mumford (cello); Sam Walker (drums). Recording information: 2001-2007.