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Ok, so first off I must iterate the fact that this particular run down is in no particular order, nor is it a definitive list of the best British record labels of all time (as if such a breakdown could ever be truly quantified). It is simply a list of some personal favourites within the British...MORE>>

Elizabeth and the Catapult are a Brooklyn based band that are hard to place into a genre. Their musical approach is a synthesis of styles and influences, from The Beatles to Debussy.

The band have recently been acknowledged for their musical contributions when they were named Billboard Underground Artist for last October. The eclectic tastes of Elizabeth and the Catapult are reflected in the flawless arrangement of their songs, and Race You is no exception.

 Since 2004, Elizabeth and the Catapult have established a sizeable fan base through touring the West Coats of America. Race You, from the self titled EP, is a song which shows just how a diversity of styles can merge to create an unprecedented sound.  The song begins with an almost carnivalesque clapping of hands, joined with the mellow country voice of Elizabeth Ziman.

The combination of an upbeat tone, relaxing harmonies and fresh cheery guitars give it a real feel good factor, bringing with it visions of summer. Lyrically, it flaunts a simplistic nature which works agreeably with the accompaniment. Sometimes its hard to digest such a wave of happiness that Race You parades, but the bridge comes just at the right time, slowing the song down, and re-establishing the cheerful progression.

 The band really utilize the backing vocals which give a warmth to the song which is hard to argue with, it gives a really honest notion of creating happiness through a pleasant and unthreatening melody. Race You doesn’t need anything more than it already has, its unpretentious, candidly constructed, and lively. It could be considered by some as an insipid piece of almost post-hippy style music, but the sheer quality of the vocal style and musical skill elevates the song to a much higher level.

 Race You has the uncanny ability to liven the listener up, the natural progression of the song is fairly predictable, but this is not to say that it doesn’t leave a sense of satisfaction and even a smile on your face.

The sound is fresh and crisp, and the inventive style of the band gives a breezy and fanciful character, one which we all need in light of the financial climate. But Elizabeth and The Catapult are certainly in the money with their innovative style, and well worth looking out for. The band are currently recording in Omaha, and are touring the east coast through until Feb 2009.