The Higher State – “Codeine” / “Clouds Of Doubt” (Back To Beat Records BTB022) November 2022
I’ve highlighted the greatness of The Higher State many times over the years but this is the first appearance on my new blog, The Monocled Alchemist.
Now operating as a studio project, there are two permanent members.
Original all-round authentic sixties-inspired sonic genius Marty Ratcliffe and loner-folk purist Paul Messis.
Their latest single is now old news, it was released on relatively new label Back To Beat Records, who operate out of Bergen, Norway.
They tasked The Higher State to participate and contribute two sixties garage numbers for their run of singles within their ‘Moody Garage Series’ of discs.
Codeine
Two numbers were recorded during the first few months of 2022 with the help of former Mystreated bass guitarist Huw Walters. I’m not sure who played drums.
The A-side is a brilliant version of the often covered “Codeine”, written by Buffy St Marie but better known as a recording by The Charlatans.
The Higher State have created a stunning avalanche of noise, all forlorn jangle and mesmerizing organ bursts. It perfectly captures the pitifully sad reflections of the song and brims with dejection and abandonment.
I’d go as far and say that this is the most impressive rendition of ‘Codeine’ and easily my favourite remake. It’s all very desolate and melancholic. I like how the metronomic tambourine is up front and conspicuous, like a slow heart-beat. A compelling sound of emptiness. Magical.
On the flip there is wonderment to behold with their morose version of “Clouds Of Doubt”, originally recorded in 1966 by Cleveland teen combo The Faces In The Crowd.
So folks, The Higher State have certainly fulfilled their mission for Back To Beat Records.
They have surpassed themselves with two beautiful and authentic moody folk-rock janglers of the highest order.
Groups / Projects like The Higher State should be cherished. Buy their records.
This one is limited to 500 copies, coming in both an outer sleeve designed by Avi Spivak.
And an inner sleeve baring the Back To Beat typeface.
Leave a Reply