Towards the end of 2010 sees the release of Paper Crows’ debut single - ‘Stand Alight’. Paper Crows are a newly formed collaboration between Londoners Emma Panas and Duncan McDougal. As a pair they have only been making music together for a year after meeting in college, however as you take his track in you see this relative lack of experience with each other fails to hinder the eminence of their material.
Initially, as you listen to the introduction there is a sense of something imminent with light airy sounds including a soft acoustic riff, then from nowhere comes this tenacious dubstep bassline like an unexpected punch in the head - but it works, it works very well. Combined with passionate piano chords and heavy, assertive drum rhythm this makes for quite a dark and powerful piece of music.
The likes of Massive Attack, Zero 7 and Portishead are clear influences on this track. However the distinct dubstep flavours are due to the production skills of drum and bass duo Future Cut, who’s previous accreditations include Professor Green, Dizzee Rascal and Plan B.
Towards the end of the track there is a short electronic style interlude, which is in a slightly different style to the rest of the record. This somehow feels a little unnecessary and loosens the core of the track too close to it’s climax. This however doesn’t spoil the overall forcefulness and appeal of the record.
Expressing such vocal maturity at the age of 18, Panas’ vocals are gorgeous, delicate and crisp. This helps support a lyrical sophistication you would expect from a much more established lyricist, bringing the quality of the track into the foreground.
Given its relative simplicity, it’s clear that a lot of work has gone into this track to represent the pairs talents as writers, performers and experimentalists. That effort has not gone to waste, as a debut release it’s a brilliant start, paving the way for more.
‘Stand Alight’ was released on October 11th, under the Future Cut Record Label. The band are currently working on their debut album, which should surface in early 2011.
Stereoboard Album Rating: 8/10
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The likes of Massive Attack, Zero 7 and Portishead are clear influences on this track. However the distinct dubstep flavours are due to the production skills of drum and bass duo Future Cut, who’s previous accreditations include Professor Green, Dizzee Rascal and Plan B. 
