(Sophomore Lounge)
It seems wholly appropriate that “Fantasy Error,” the latest from Americana rockers State Champion, dropped in mid-May, given that the weather so perfectly reflects the mood here. This is ideal music to listen to when the temperature is warm, but mild, when you can ride around at night with your windows down and the volume up way too high on your stereo. There is a fragile kind of gentleness to singer/guitarist Ryan Davis’ voice and playing, a looseness that encapsulates the record in such a wonderful way that it defies easy explanation. “Fantasy Error” feels like an album made by and for friends for those days when you want to reflect on your past, drinking something tasty on your porch late and talking way beyond bedtime. Davis’ music has a Will Oldham charm made rich with humor.
