Don't Whisper Lies - EP

Album Review

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.