Reminiscent of The Beach Boys' Smile
J. Scull | 09/09/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"When you first listen to this album you will notice that these guys are big fans of all of the groups that matter from the latter half of the 60's.
If you appreciate lush music full of Brian Wilson-esque touches then you will love this album. Clouded Staircase is one long song cycle whose music goes in many directions but always seems to return to the theme tune "Clouded Staircase" in a manner that reminds me of how The Beach Boys return to the Bicycle Rider theme throughout their masterpiece, Smile.
A few standout tracks are Camp-Fire (a haunting ballad), The St. Valentine's Day Massacre (which opens the album with one killer riff and would be a sure-fire hit if the radio ever played good music) and To Flunker with Love (featuring some magnificent drumming from one John Fossum).
While one might be quick to point out the obvious influences such as The Beach Boys, Guided By Voices, Bee Gees, and The Zombies I think I detect subtle influences of Escape From the Planet of the Apes, the early Friday the 13th sequels and dare I say maybe even a little Superman II...
This record makes me extremely excited about the potential of Starling Electric. The only question I'm left with after listening to this masterpiece is, how are they going to follow it up?
"
The Byrds Meet Brian Wislon
Paul Williams | Bowral NSW Australia | 06/29/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"What a wonderful piece of art. This is one of those albums that brings a smile of delight with each musical turn, and there are so many. Sure it's derivative, but what art form isn't. The subtle homages paid to Brian Wilson - circa Pet Sounds - and The Byrds are the more obvious reference points, but Starling Electric has so much more to offer. I played Clouded Staircase to my son and his best mate last night (they're both 20) - they loved it. This is music that has nothing to do with genre or a period or fashion. This album is why I love good music and musicians who have something to add to the richness of our lives."
Track Listings (18) - Disc #1