Starbenders, The Beast Goes On

The 4-piece from Atlanta have made a significant name for themselves on an international scale over the years. Rooted in glam rock and goth tones, Starbenders have cumulatively forged their sound into an epic of pop rock. The Beast Goes On does not look back when walking away from explosions. This new album has Starbenders showcasing their most raw sound yet paired with their cool over-the-top performances.

Kimi Shelter in Atlanta (Photo: Sam Kapoor)

Kimi said what? The LP begins on an unholy note, brushed with organs and Kimi Shelter’s unapologetic lyrics on the title track. The strong introduction of “I love the way you make me hate you, penetrate you, and drink your blood” affirms the listener of the ride they’re about to take. I will personally say the track can stand toe to toe with any goth rock track you throw at it. 

The second track takes the bender star for my favorite. The eyeliner runs until the punky vibes arrive. The bass by Aaron Lecesne carries the track with some real stank up into the hook. The hook feels like a small interpolation of “Cry Little Sister” from The Lost Boys, which feeds into the vision for the band. I reached out for confirmation but did not receive a response. It’s okay. Keep your secrets.

The lyrics to “Chantilly Boy” are inspired by a real-life interaction between a stranger and vocalist Kimi Shelter. It sparks a tonal change in the lyrics in the album that reverberates throughout the rest of the songs. While the hooks get catchier, the heart grows in the verses. A scorched Earth mindset paired with a Bonnie and Clyde type romanticism will grip any listener, whether this is their jam or not. 

The record heads for a dreamier atmosphere as you move along. Some of the haunting organs are traded for airy synth pads. Some of the minor melodies transform into major lifts. “Saturday” and “21 Century Digital Boy” are prime examples of this poppier push into this goth vaporwave road trip sound. I find myself struggling to overanalyze. It’s a hypnotic motion that allows the listener to loosen the grip of some of the dark themes. 

As a listener for over a decade, I can attest this fourth album is a true-blue classic. I always imagine what some bands could do with an infinite budget. Regardless of what was spent, it sounds like a million bucks. We’re treated to a much bigger and more bassy production from the band. They don’t pigeonhole themselves to revive anything. It’s doubling down with twice the amps. The brash lyrics, pumped kicks, and the best hair is who Starbenders has always been. I didn’t expect anything less. Now give Kimi a sword.