Metal, Hardcore, Indie, Rock
When I think about the music that shaped my teen years, it’s all about punk, rock and alternative. And while I’m a new fan of this band, the 14-year-old me would have loved Starbenders from the get go (even though the band was actually formed a few years later!). Doesn’t matter, today is the perfect day to enjoy the Americans’ new album titled “The Beast Goes On”.
First of all, the quality of this album is pristine. I’m in love with the production, mixing and mastering, done very carefully and thouroghly. Kimi Shelter’s voice on “The Beast Goes On” is the main force driving the whole group: delicate when needed (“Cold Silver“, “hello goodbye“), and strong too (“Tokyo”, “Somebody Else“). Kriss Tokaji and Aaron Lecesne are fabulous in holding the rhythmic section, with Qi Wei’s precision on drums that completes the whole ensemble.
But don’t confuse Starbenders‘ uptempo tracks that inject energy as a loss of emotional depth. There’s more than meets the eye, like themes of loss, renewal and ultimately life. You know it’s a great album when the balance between urgency and thoughtfulness strengthens the songwriting and makes the songs truly resonate during the listening experience.
The choice of singles so far has been strategic and it gives a well-rounded idea of what you can expect from the whole album. My favorite track is a tie between the title track and “June“, which is the longest track of the album, as well as one of the most introspective.
The group from Atlanta has yet raised the bar when it comes to their work. “The Beast Goes On” literally and figuratively, because their unique approach to evolution and innovation has consolidated their place in the alternative scene. So when February 27th comes, don’t make a mistake and listen to the newest Starbenders!
Tracklist:
