Starcrawler – Starcrawler

Starcrawler – Starcrawler
(Rough Trade Records)

Reviewed by Bridget Herlihy.

To be labeled as the band that is reinvigorating rock n roll is an accomplishment in itself, but to have earned such an accolade on the strength of a debut album is mammoth feat indeed. Los Angeles based rock outfit Starcrawler have dropped their long-awaited self-titled debut album and its not a moment too soon. Having formed in 2015 while at high school the band, Arrow de Wilde (vocals), Henri Cash (guitar), Tim Franco (bass) and Austin Smith (drums) have become masters of their craft with an album that packs a solid aural rock punch.

Starcrawler’s distinctive sound is a nod to classic pop/punk/rock bands such as the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, the Cramps, The Runaways, and Alice Cooper, with a touch of The Ramones and a dash of timeless glam rock for good measure, yet they skillfully manage to avoid falling into the trap of music clichés with a sound that is distinctly fresh and feisty. Despite still being in her teen’s De Wilde’s vocals defy her age, as if channeling the likes of Cherie Curry and Patti Smith while periodically reminiscent of a young Courtney Love when she was at the top of her game. Yet comparisons aside De Wilde maintains her own distinct swagger, providing the perfect vocal accompaniment to the band’s guitar-rock soundtrack.

Interestingly, the album’s ten tracks were recorded by Ryan Adams on analogue tape at Adams’ Pax-Am studio, and from opening tracks Train and Love’s Gone Again the album demands the listener sits up and takes notice. With solid beats, dirty rock guitar greatness and the silky and sultry vocals of de Wilde Starcrawler are onto a winning formula. Highlights of the album include debut single I Love LA, and ode to their hometown, the more laid-back ballad-esque Tears and the brooding Chicken Woman. Keep a close eye and ear on Starcrawler, by all accounts this band is destined for rock n roll greatness, and this album proves they are well on their way.