In a time when redundancy rules the airwaves, New Planet is a small gem that gives fans of true rock music hope for the future. This disc is a fabulous introduction to the unique design of emotional rock that is State Shirt. New listeners may be wary to listen to State Shirt; after all, the beautifully dark "120 Miles Per Hour" is a tongue-in-cheek ode to a departed automobile, while "It's A Shame..." will leave you baffled as to the origin of the title. Intrepid listeners will be rewarded with memorable tracks that will forever remain somewhere within their minds. The haunting "Do the Math" has many high points, though it would benefit from the removal of the self-distorted background vocals. The somber story within "Hotel" is spread over catchy, uptempo rock, complete with a powerful, rebellious chant. "Highway" perfectly blends its sad story with music that varies from mellow to ominous. Between the smooth vocals, solid groove, beautiful background sample, and solemn ending, "It's A Shame..." is a musical feast, and a perfect way to close this wonderful collection. This EP would be a success for a group of accomplished musicians; the fact that State Shirt is a one-man act adds a new level of appreciation for this quality music. This EP belongs in the music collection of anyone who values authentic musicianship and excellent songwriting. For rock fans needing escape from the current selection of popular drivel, State Shirt's New Planet is one of the first rays of light at the end of the tunnel.

State Shirt masterfully proves that music can be dissonant without being offensive to the ears. The chords are often not ones which you would find in any music theory textbook, and often it feels as if the instruments are all doing their own thing, yet somehow it all still sounds totally coherent and cohesive. This extends well beyond the music and into the vocals, evocative emotional rides about everyday things, presenting an intellectual challenge which is still delicious to the casual listener. The only downside to this album is that, as an EP, it only skims the surface of State Shirt's catalog, leaving the listener hungry for much more than this delicious appetizer; perhaps the main course will eventually arrive at the table.

All five tracks on this album are full of concentration and a moderate level of intensity. Every song is thought out, recored well, and mixed with outstanding precision. It's dramatic and full of sound but still very easy on the ears. I find myself listening to it at work as background music just as much as I throw it in the box on a Saturday night of drinking or even just lay back with some headphones and give it a nice listen on a rainy day. It's everything you want from a commercial artist but it also discards everything you don't like about commercial artists. An album seasoned for all seasons.

I've listened to this CD once every few days since I got it, and I haven't yet grown tired of it. My only complaint is that it is 5 songs long. I want MORE! =D