Sound: Stellastarr* reclaim their position as the quintessential synth-pop magnates of the 21st century with their latest release Civilized. Displaying the chic, stylistic coils of ‘80s new wavers Devo and Joy Division and the fanfare of blazing tremors relatable to Arcade Fire, Stellastarr* create an amenable alloy of electro-pop and synth-tapestried rock that meets club standards. The upbeat tempo of “Graffiti Eyes” is throng by bustling horns locked in a vise of serried beats strapped to a propeller of whipping guitar spins that keep the band’s momentum in high gear. The party-pop vibe of “Prom Zombie” is harnessed in rhythmic pivots and electrified surges propping a zing reminiscent of Toni Basil’s pop single “Hey Mickey,” and the billowy rumples made along “Warchild” coerce sparkling buds liken to Joy Division. The towering blazes of “Tokyo Sky” are striking, while the stirring mix of rootsy rock tremors and synth-pop flusters sowed along “Freak Out” have a folksy luster.
The rotund vibrations and rumbling beats catapult “Move On” and generate an anthem-like marching, while the twinkling flares that kindle the synth-trellised fires and taut rapping in the drumbeats through “Sonja Cries” have a Blue October-radiance. The simmering ripples embedded in “People” slows the album’s momentum to a crawl, and reaches a zesty grassroots rock stomping with a dance-pop sheen in “Numbers.” Stellastarr* are modern day wizards when it comes to reviving synth-pop incantations. They are well-polished in the ways of making music that club-goers desire, and fulfilling desires is what Stellastarr* strive to do. // 8
Lyrics and Singing: Stellastarr*’s lyrics are like coming into the middle of someone’s conversation and watching the dialogue unfold like in “Warchild” with phrases that resound, “You need to show me some signs of life… I’d like to help you if I can.” Sometimes the lyrics offer advice like in “Sonja Cries” with verses that vow, “The drastic battle cries.. When you’re lost in your heart… Don’t fall apart.” But the lyrics that really stick in the listener’s mind are the ones that ring like an anthem like in “Move On” with lines that proclaim, “We can build a story through the years / The story for our age / It’s the dawning of our lives... Darling, give me one more chance.” // 7
Impression: Stellastarr* have kept fans waiting for Civilized, and it is sure to please them. The album introduces the band’s music to new audiences as well as re-acquainting their fanbase with the group’s leanings towards synth-rock alloys. The album is best consumed as a whole unit, meaning every track has its assets and no two are exactly alike. Stellastarr* have reclaimed their post on the global market and veered club music in the direction of modern rock with Civilized. // 7
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