Romantic States - 'Ballerina' - Cassette & 12" vinyl
The ever-brilliant Romantic States evolve into a quartet for the first time on this all Ilenia-sung LP of stunners. A masterpiece.
Gorgeous limited black vinyl, package includes 2-sided insert and digital download. 12" LP.
Limited gold cassette tape with 8-panel J-card artwork.
Both packages feature lyrics and new artwork by the inimitable Ilenia Madelaire.
Buy TWO Romantic States album in one package! The classic Corduroy In Italy—12" black vinyl with full color eurosleeve—and Ballerina—12" black vinyl with 2-sided insert. Save BIG when purchased together!
Baltimore's forever-forward pop icons Romantic States return with documentation of their progressive exploration into the art of song.
2017 LP Corduroy In Italy blasted and cooed with the top rockers on Charles Street, earning nods from unmentionable zines, community radio stations, and attendees at concerts across the U.S. It was just singer-drummer Ilenia Madelaire and singer-guitarist Jim Triplett then. For Ballerina, Ilenia stands at the front as a full-time vocalist. Jim continues to shred his delicate parts, supporting Ilenia's cozy-worn compositions and her dark, funny, touching lyrics. The new rhythm section features Shawn Durham (Gauche, the YeAsTiEs, ex-Snail Mail) on percussion and bassist Alan Everhart (Wildhoney, Dummy).
These ten songs reflect stories from the corners and centers of life, out where it gets really, really bad (see: everywhere). We do it because we have to. Romantic States reach a brilliant new expression on Ballerina. Early reviews, much like the music, run the gamut in feeling. Cash says it whips and bangs. There are those who say its tender toughness breaks through hearts-turned-cold. Its worked as a reintroduction of music and art to the dying life. Could there be a better summation of Gentle Reminder? Romantic States are here, and the world improves.
You may have seen the group play concerts with Beach House, Future Islands, The Cowboys, Agua Viva, or another favorite band.
"It’s pretty great! ... What makes it special are the words shared by Madelaire, who establishes herself here as a cruel poet of the mundane, consistently hilarious and wicked with a lyrics sheet you’ll want to read."
— Matt Korvette (Yellow Green Red, Pissed Jeans)
"there’s something especially poignant about the quiet power of Romantic States."
— Lydia Woolever (Baltimore Magazine)
"a familiar and beloved staple amongst my most cherished albums ... it offers tremendous emotional depth, but delivered gently, kindly, directly, gracefully, honestly. This isn't just 'good music,' it's special."
— Laurie Spector (Hothead)
"stunning ... it’s like they’ve sponsored an indiepop seance and decided to write the whole score"
— Nathan Lankford (Austin Town Hall)