The Rainy States, "In The Darkness Darling," The Push and the Plan (Self-Released)

Local four-piece the Rainy States has come a long way since its first release, In the Basement Air, three years ago.

Singer Betsy Johnson's smooth, sexy, sultry vocals are still the act's biggest drawcard, but the band as a whole has refined and polished its bluesy, R&B-inspired indie sound with clean, cruisey guitars, crisp beats and some beautiful harmonies from the band's quiet-achiever, guitarist and backup vocalist Kevin Morgan.

"In the Darkness Darling" is probably the least emblematic song off the Rainy State's upcoming album, The Push and the Plan, but it's such a beautiful track that I'm going to share it anyway.

The song sees Morgan's husky voice step out of Johnson's shadow, taking on shared vocal duties in a bluesy, bittersweet duet with minimal instrumentation, save for some classical string crescendos and a smattering of guitar and tambourine in the background.

[audio:inthedarknessdarling.mp3]

For a better idea of the album's generally pacier sound, also have a listen to the lead single, "New Castle", which the band released as a vinyl 45 last year:

[audio:newcastle.mp3]

The Rainy States are playing at Burgerville (SE Hawthorne and 12th) tonight with the Shaky Hands and Starparty. 6 pm. Free. All Ages.

Image courtesy of Studio A Photography.

Links:
The Rainy StateSpace