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Porcelaintoy: Contrite Elegant Rebel

The seduction starts with the slick little press kit, an above-average offering of glossy pics, band bio and album. Having compelled you to listen to the CD immediately, Porcelaintoy continues to woo with a serenade of guitars, mandolin, piano and electronic beats. Wellington-based two-piece, Elizabeth and Emile De la Rey, first introduced the 12 songs on their debut album with a live multi-media theatre show complete with choir, string section and dance troupe. Elizabeth sings and plays guitar, mandolin and piano beautifully. Emile is clearly a whiz with synths and electronic beats. With the exception of guest contributions (double bass, drums and euphonium) on some songs, ‘Contrite Elegant Rebel’ is the De la Reys’ baby. All songs were recorded, produced and mixed at their home studio, then sent to New York for mastering. The songs are mellow enough to listen to before sleep, nice enough to play to your parents, but (with the electronics) edgy enough to be interesting. Stand ous are You’re The Water with vintage-tinged synth and a touch of trip hop, and Cupid’s Walk with its Tricky-ish duet vocals and industrial edge.

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