The Starkillers – Here With You (2022)
Drawing together the musical skills, diverse influences and natural talent of four close friends and previous bandmates, The Starkillers can ensnare your senses with their insatiable songs. Formed only two years ago by frontman Jon Omen, Mike Fiedel (guitar), Chris Panic (bass) and Doc Taylor (drums) are already building a strong following and turning heads across the globe. Featured on We Write About Music, Senocular Media, TJPL News and various other publications, The Starkillers are described as “…an incredible fusion of rock and pop” (Sinusoidal Music) and having “showcasing brilliant songwriting and superb musicianship” (Less Than 1000 Followers). The latest addition to their discography is the single ‘Here With You’.
The third offering from the US-based foursome, ‘Here With You’ diverts from their previous releases adopting a mellow, soothing sound. Unlike ‘Are You Thinking Of Me’ or ‘Close To The End’, a more mellifluous quality exists in ‘Here With You’; however, the track retains the band’s trademark alternative rock grittiness. Openly influenced by the likes of Foo Fighters and Walk The Moon, a nostalgic throwback the to late 90s/early 2000s rock oozes from ‘Here With You’. Interestingly enough, while a retro sound exists in the new single, a contemporary edginess sits atop the obscure arrangement.
The melody can definitely hold its own with pounding drums and driving guitars, but I find it is Omen’s rough vocals that add a grittiness to the song. Blunt, brash and bold, there is a ruggedness to his rock tones; however, a rich warmth is woven into the tune as if the lads were hugging you close in a sonic embrace. I find this interesting as it so elegantly aligns with the concept of the tracks or album – the cycle of a toxic relationship.
“’Here With You’ is really just about wanting to be with the person you connect with. It comes off as a romantic song, which in a way it is, but we wanted to focus more on the intimacy of simply clicking with another human being and wanting to spend every waking minute with them because, in a way, they complete you…” – The Starkillers on ‘Here With You’
For more from The Starkillers check out their official website, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
