Mid-State Orange - Odds

Mid-State Orange is the enduring project for former Lucksmiths guitarist Louis Richter. Released in 2006, the band's eclectic debut album Odds followed a string of EP and single releases. The album kicks off with some infectious krautrock and is followed up superbly with something more akin to the most-perfect-ever pop song, "Best Intentions". from early in the album, Mid-State Orange make it clear their taste in pop music is considerably vast. Halfway through, while drifting into some subdued string-soaked acoustic balladry, the firm grasp on melody and songcraft remains constant. As Odds progresses, chunky guitars at the fore, it's become much like the proverbial chicken running around, sans head, only with catchier songs, a bubbly rhythm section, a lot more organ, and a beguiling lead singer. "Overall Mid-State Orange takes a muscular approach to sensitive-pop music. Odds showcases both wide reach and the courage to go in whatever direction seems right at the time."