Starsailor, a band born from chance encounters at Wigan College, may not be a quintessential Wigan-based group, but their legacy as a musical institution is undeniable.
Celebrating two decades since their debut, the release of anniversary editions of their initial LPs serves as a testament to their lasting impact. With their latest album, nearly seven years in the making, Starsailor faces the question of whether they can transcend mere nostalgia.
Beginning with “Into The Wild,” the album bursts with unexpected vigor, avoiding clichés and electronic gimmicks. Instead, it adopts classical instrumentation such as guitars, organs, and soulful choirs, creating a refreshing soundscape. “Heavyweight” follows suit, layering raw guitar riffs over pulsing bass lines and lush organ melodies, maintaining the album's initial fervor.
“After the Rain,” described by frontman James Walsh as the most moving, arriving fully formed, takes a turn toward acoustic Nashville Country, its brief duration filled with emotional lyricism and soulful gospel harmonies. Tracks like “Flowers” continue this thematic exploration, offering philosophical reflections amidst country-inspired arrangements, showcasing Starsailor’s lyrical depth and musical versatility.
The LP's title track, “Where the Wild Things Grow,” pays moving tribute to their debut, drawing on piano melodies reminiscent of past hits. However, “Dead on the Money” emerges as a standout track, combining elements of their signature sound with contemporary influences, offering a candid commentary on social pressures and the search for authenticity.
Under the direction of producer Richard McNamara, Starsailor stays true to their early 2000s roots while infusing their music with new passion and innovation. Lyrically, the band's signature blend of youthful idealism and world-weary wisdom finds new resonance, perfectly complementing the album's rich sonic tapestry.
On “Where the Wild Things Grow,” Starsailor delivers a sonically coherent masterpiece, showcasing their evolution as musicians and storytellers. With each song, they reaffirm their place in the musical landscape, demonstrating that, although nostalgia may draw them in, their creative journey is far from over.
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