The Southern California
dream pop band
Trespassers William make their Nettwerk debut by reissuing their 2002 album Different Stars. Originally issued on the band's own Sonik Wire and eventually
Simon Raymonde's Bella Union in the U.K., this particular package doesn't totally differ from its previous releases. It's basically a preview to the band's hypnotic and lush soundscape that's yet to come. Those who are familiar with
Trespassers William's delightful
pop melodies might already own Different Stars, but for those who don't, the Nettwerk version includes slightly different artwork, one brand new song, and a bonus track; a live version of "Different Stars" from KCRW. KCRW and KEXP out of Seattle were early supporters of the band, and it's partly because of them that the band's sound has reached the
indie rock masses.
Anna-Lynne Williams' soft, angelic vocals, which are eerily similar to
Aimee Mann's, are flawlessly matched with
Matt Brown's keyboard and guitar arrangements.
Trespassers William isn't sonically daring, but their refined presentation is exactly in place. From the lovelorn ballads such as "Lie in the Sound" and "Let You Down" to the sparse twang of "Alone," Different Stars maintains a quiet atmosphere with slow-changing moods and textures. "What Could I Say," which isn't included on the original album, is
Trespassers William's shining moment. The cold chill of acoustic guitars and
Williams' lovely vocal delivery resonates early material by
the Sundays and
Mazzy Star. A cover of
Ride's classic epic "Vapour Trail" is dressed in pianos, ebbing synth beats, and again,
Williams' achingly beautiful voice surrounds its sheer texture. Different Stars isn't wildly creative, however it fits among the
indie rock/
indie pop pack of 2004. Those who will always adore the
dream pop/shoegazer sounds of the early '90s should enjoy the sonic bliss that is
Trespassers William. [The Bella Union edition of Different Stars from 2002 includes the track "Just Like This," which is not included here.] ~ MacKenzie Wilson, All Music Guide
