CD Info

Hailing from Kansas, Samestate combines the vertical perspective of a worship band with the introspective focus of an indie rock unit. The Alignment takes Coldplay’s stately melodicism and U2’s atmospheric intensity as departure points, then adds acoustic elements for a distinctive touch. Lead singer Dalton Diehl has a strong, flexible voice with a hint of melancholy—he brings a mix of longing and desperation to upbeat tracks like “Sons and Daughters” and “Hearts Like Fire,” as well as more contemplative ballads like “Shadows.” Sonically, the tunes here set up pleasing contrasts, pairing the galloping sweep of “Wake Me Up” with the slightly discordant ambiance of “Upside Down.” Widescreen visions of God’s majesty infuse “Realign” and “Hurricane,” contrasting with the delicate metaphors of the string-accented “Symphonies.” Producer Paul Moak keeps the tracks clean and uncluttered, letting Samestate’s folkier side shine through amid the rockier excursions. The Alignment hits a sweet spot that should please a broad range of listeners. - iTunes