Fragile State are Neil Cowley (Zero 7) and Ben Mynott (Blues and Soul). 2002 sees the highly-anticipated release of The Facts And The Dreams, a wonderful fusion of downtempo grooves, sweeping orchestral bliss, deep soul and jazz. The result is a totally unique sounding album that will appeal to everyone. 'Modern day John Barry with subtle touches of soul and jazz' best describes the Fragile State listening experience - one that is already causing major stirs in the industry.Decorating shuffling percussion with lashings of eased instrumentation and star-gazing keys, this 10-track outing is true to the duo's reputation. Breaking the pattern of soft-cornered groove therapy with an occasional slice of cinematica, the glacial pianos of Barney Fade offer the most obvious reflection of the title's reference to an obscure 1920s book on German architecture. Though ambitious, these soundtracked slivers are outgunned by the barrage of blissful, wandering Rhodes, brass honks and acidic bassline burbles that make up most of the intricate arrangements here.The Facts and the Dreams is sure to satisfy those who have in the past sought solace from the likes of Kinobe, Bent and Blue States. --Kingsley Marshall