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Recent Journal
Review: Starlight's Castaways by What Strange Beasts
a year ago
This album can be heard and purchased at https://whatstrangebeasts.bandcamp......ghts-castaways
I encourage you to form your own opinions, and support the artists!
From the very first track, Starlight's Castaways draws you in with its compelling narrative and immersive sonic landscape. The songs flow seamlessly from one to the next, each one a self-contained story that adds to the larger picture. The lyrics are rich with meaning, tackling themes of loss, hope, and redemption in a way that is both poetic and relatable.
Musically, the album is a triumph. The band's musicianship is on full display, with intricate guitar work, driving rhythms, and soaring vocals that all come together to create a sound that is both epic and intimate. The production is top-notch, with every instrument and vocal line perfectly balanced in the mix.
Overall, Starlight's Castaways is a remarkable achievement for the band. It's an album that rewards repeated listens, revealing new layers and details with each spin. It's a testament to the power of music to transport us to other worlds and to make us feel deeply. If you're a fan of rock music, this is an album that you absolutely cannot miss.
Please indulge me as I discuss each primary track of this album, because it has had such a strong impact I feel driven to discuss it further. Skip to the end for the final review!
Starlight's Castaways
So the first main track on this album sets the tone for the first half. This is an adventurous and stirring song with a nice touch of humour. It implies not only the sense of adventure given by the music and tone, but the lyrics indicate either a stowaway or a theft, immediately identifying that the protagonists are free-spirited and not law-abiding. This is a solid beginning, and while having the title named track at the beginning of the album is rare, in this case, it is appropriate. It tells the listener what they are in for and the kind of story that is being meant.
Meteor Bath
This track appears upbeat at first view but also carries a deep, wistful, yearning tone. It is also the track where I notice the bass and piano weaving with the music to make it more impactful. The bass is solid throughout the album and stands on its own. The drums also are on point and punchy when needed to be, but not married to a single style or method; the drummer keeps the band well-tied together.
Lyrically I read this song as a reminisce and a yearning for adventure. However, this one is more on an emotional tone, and again displays a meta-story going on for the entirety of the album.
Plasticbrain
This track was a favourite among at least some of the band. The energy with which it was performed makes it one of the Key Tracks of this album.
Musically again, different style than the previous tracks, but not a total departure. The classic structure combined with the unique mix of instrumentals (and I have to say again. Each band member shines either together or in their part. So single instrument takes 'the show' in the entire album. It has the feeling of an album with every member contributing)
Lyrically I have a story theory; given the sci-fi presence of the album, to me, this track makes me think of someone either uploaded into a post-human (post-furry?) network or linked to some computer mentally. And on a spin, unable to return to the previous way of seeing the world. An almost positive acknowledgment of the loss of self associated with such a change.
Scattered Skies
This track starts with an almost retro industrial beat before flowing more organically. The refrain ‘The quiet part out loud’ seems especially haunting in this track and does tend to earworm.
The lyrics describe a bleak and dystopian world where the skies are polluted and industrialised, and people have lost their connection to nature and themselves. The "man in red" is perhaps a leader or figurehead who is bedridden and powerless, as the birds no longer sing and the world is dominated by "metal minds" and "engines of destruction." Following the album’s general theme, this song tends to have a transhumanist note but with a much bleaker tone.
Again, the lyrics “He made his family from the earth And in the dearth of bodies free from flaws” suggest someone making a mechanical civilisation. But these creations seem to be coming to a singularity, a self-awareness as reflected in “We don’t know who we are, And time and time we’ve had this dream.”
Despite the darkness, there is a glimmer of hope in the form of "our spirits," who shout out a message of unity and individuality to the "tower" or those in power. The final stanza suggests that the last surviving person in this world struggles to differentiate between good and evil, but also has the power to create and imbue life into the sculptures he crafted. The repeated phrase "the quiet part out loud"refers to the newly bloomed feelings in the “man in red” that cannot connect to. But in the end:
“When he stretches out his rod, Finding and reminding, All the faces that he sculpted out of steel, The crystal heart that beats inside their bodies, He had always made to feel” implies his creations were always able to feel emotion and self-awareness. Still, now he no longer feels these things.
Imperfect Vision
This track starts with a robust balladic structure, setting the tone immediately. There is a bit of a galloping manner between stanzas that express a level of anxiety that the lyrics reflect.
The refrain “Get me out of this town” is followed by an impactful break, the first appearance of which is followed by an excellent, but not too long, jazzy piano solo. This said, the slide from energetic and anxious to calm and focused only amplifies the underlying tension of the track and the feeling of panic implied.
The narrator has gone on an excursion that has taken them out of their comfort zone and exposed them to a harsh reality. They are overwhelmed by the suffering they witness, including burning air, tortured wails, and tears on the face of a protester. The repeated refrain of "runaway" expresses the narrator's desperation to escape from this reality and find a place of safety and peace. The different variations of this phrase, such as "hideaway" and "turn away," suggest that the narrator is considering various options for escape.
The song itself, given the time-frame in which the album was produced, serves as an allegory for the social unrest in the world in the last few years and the stifling entrapment provided by the COVID pandemic.
The song’s final lines refer to "veiled angels" who have "wrapped up everyone," which seems to suggest a sense of finality or resignation.
Overall, the lyrics convey a sense of helplessness and a desire to escape difficult situations. The repeated refrain of "run away" highlights the urgency of this desire. At the same time, the various variations of the phrase suggest that there may not be a straightforward or easy solution to the narrator's problems.
No New Messages
First of all? Musically? This song is excellent; there seem to be four entirely separate 'movements', as I call them in my dumb head. Additionally, that single drum that starts on 'give me a call' is shiverous and impactful. It makes me think of a yearning steady heartbeat and builds so much delightful tension. 'Far and Wise these waveforms hide' is so dramatic and stately, evoking that intense yearning, punctuated by the tonal shift of 'I'll be waiting while' and returning to form after is just... It earworms and makes me feel longing.
Storywise, I get the impression of someone who has been in cryosleep on and off for ages, looking for a connection from a dark and unpopulated universe, yearning for that contact without real hope until the very end.
Cat's Paw
This track gives me a very 70's psychedelic vibe, and of all the songs reminds me of the strongest of Rush. It has a very... craftsman's tone? It puts me in mind of someone making something musically. Like a blacksmith or engineer, but very psychedelic-prog.
With my understanding of reading the lyrics? I almost want to say someone is brewing LSD. In this case, I don't read a super deep meaning in the lyrics themselves, but I am not at all disappointed as it seems a more straightforward lyrical theme expertly delivered that again earworms. I especially like gated flange(?) that gives it such an ethereal vibe and makes me want to join in with whatever shenanigans are going down. That strong chorus has been pumping my fist every time.
Ocean Glass
This track... Of all the tracks on this album, this one makes me cry every time. Part of this, I am sure, as this is the one track I 100% know the meaning of and the the personal connections I have.
This is the anthem of missed connections and lost friends. The whole song up to 'If the fates would have dared' and the slow mournful tone feels a setup to the tone switch at 3:25 to take those feelings that have been gently caressed and almost angrily grasp them with both hands.
"Reaching out across the years
There was nothing in this silence that we treasured
We’ve known trials, we’ve known tears
We’ve known pain and hardships beyond any measure."
It is my breaking point when the tears start hitting hard. "There was nothing in this silence that we treasured" is just... Fuck, I am crying again just writing this. The chorus of the song:
"But you’re trying to wind that watch
When the clock’s all but stopped
In the years you will find
You can’t just hit rewind"
Also just... It makes me want to reach out and make contact with people I have fallen out of touch with, and look them in the eyes and tell them they are important to me.
This song makes me want to be a better person.
Then, after all that buildup, release, and tears of hearts-blood going on, at 5:40 the tone changes again to become caressing and even soothing. A wistful smile and a faint hope accompany the tears that are formed and running down your face... It IS better late than never because you never know when you won't have that opportunity again. The final notes after the final chorus, seem a comforting hug of understanding.
Very few times in my life have I been able to send someone a song and express EXACTLY how I feel, and this is it. Listening to this song is an emotionally exhausting journey, and frankly, I don't know how you can even sing it without breaking down.
It might not be the BEST (But EVERY song is excellent) song on the album, but it is the most important song on the album.
Second Sight
I must call out the bassist and drummer who start this track solid. The organs kicking in make it nice and creamy. I especially love the flange (?) effect on the chorus. It gives it an almost ethereal feel while still solid grounding with the drums and organ driving. I admit, occasionally I wish the backing vocals had a bit more clarity, but I can understand the need for a balanced mix.
"Buried under all these pasts!" Have a transition at the end that makes me think strongly of Nobuo Uematsu.
Lyrics-wise, my interpretation is of a person who is cursed with foreknowledge. It reminds me of a (either real or in a book I read) folktale of the person cursed by the gods to know the future, not knowing that foreknowledge destroys one of the most critical parts of the human condition, hope.
A Different Light
This is a very piano and vocal forward piece, arranged in just the right spot, bridging with Endless Routes transition track, again making me think of Nobuo Uematsu. This track prompts a tone shift in the album itself. I have noticed a tendency in many of your songs in what I refer to as the 3/4ths tone shift, where the music seems to transform in its last quarter. This is good. This is the tone shift for the ALBUM, Endless Routes to A Different Light.
The piano introduction is tender and soothing, as the whole song tends to be, the vocals cutting in with a haunting harmony. The echo on the drums, again, makes the piece feel dreamlike and tender.
Lyrically this seems almost a loving lullaby; it is tender and as with many songs in this album, wistful. This song makes me want to curl up lovingly with someone in front of a fire, letting our closeness and regard speak more than words ever can.
It's Mine
Love this track; it starts so classic rock and powerfully. Again, the drumming is perfectly composed. The tempo and tone change after the first stanza is impactful, setting up the scene. The galloping tone that takes place with the guitar and drums gives a feeling of forward motion and action. It has a nice and playful tone, and I have to say this is the most FUN track of the album. The organs after "Watch history—and our future!—in the making" make me think of montages and rock ballads of yore in the best way.
Storywise? The most yinglet song on the album! Meaning, it seems to me, to be pretty heavy TF themed. I am picturing some space scavengers drinking a TF potion and becoming the things they feel they are in their hearts. The song itself seems to thematically represent that choice, the drinking, and subsequent transformation in music in a way that just... works.
Deeper Space
This is the best song on the album. Slightly reminiscent of The Muse, but it has your fingerprints all about it. It has such an earworm to it; it is one of the tracks I am always down to listen to and make my attempt to sing along to. The chorus is so powerful it sends shivers down my spine, and my heart jumps into my throat. That synth arp? Haunting. The band is at peak performance, and there is not a single thing I would never have done differently with this track. Masterpiece. Thank you for making this.
Lyrically? I might have an odd take on this song, and I hope the reader will forgive me. I feel this song is an expression of the mind moments before death. I could write so much more, but... That says it all. Anything I write to describe the feelings and impact of this track will seem trite and contrived—a must-listen.
Very powerful song.
Best Friends
This is an excellent ending track, leaving on an upbeat turn. This also has a serious classic rock ballad feel, and it is wholly appropriate. It gives a nice mood uplift after the solemn and intense tones of Deeper Space.
I see this as a song of self-acceptance. An understanding that the greatest obstacle to happiness is yourself. And rather than resenting and hating yourself, you should be comfortable with who you are inside.
Final review? 10/10
Rankings:
Best: Deeper Space
Most Important: Ocean Glass
Most Fun: It's Mine
It is important to note that I did not find any track lacking on this album. I especially appreciate the title track, Starlight's Castaways in setting the tone and letting the listener know THIS is different. This is... Us. Again, the album can be found https://whatstrangebeasts.bandcamp......ghts-castaways Please support the artists!
I encourage you to form your own opinions, and support the artists!
From the very first track, Starlight's Castaways draws you in with its compelling narrative and immersive sonic landscape. The songs flow seamlessly from one to the next, each one a self-contained story that adds to the larger picture. The lyrics are rich with meaning, tackling themes of loss, hope, and redemption in a way that is both poetic and relatable.
Musically, the album is a triumph. The band's musicianship is on full display, with intricate guitar work, driving rhythms, and soaring vocals that all come together to create a sound that is both epic and intimate. The production is top-notch, with every instrument and vocal line perfectly balanced in the mix.
Overall, Starlight's Castaways is a remarkable achievement for the band. It's an album that rewards repeated listens, revealing new layers and details with each spin. It's a testament to the power of music to transport us to other worlds and to make us feel deeply. If you're a fan of rock music, this is an album that you absolutely cannot miss.
Please indulge me as I discuss each primary track of this album, because it has had such a strong impact I feel driven to discuss it further. Skip to the end for the final review!
Starlight's Castaways
So the first main track on this album sets the tone for the first half. This is an adventurous and stirring song with a nice touch of humour. It implies not only the sense of adventure given by the music and tone, but the lyrics indicate either a stowaway or a theft, immediately identifying that the protagonists are free-spirited and not law-abiding. This is a solid beginning, and while having the title named track at the beginning of the album is rare, in this case, it is appropriate. It tells the listener what they are in for and the kind of story that is being meant.
Meteor Bath
This track appears upbeat at first view but also carries a deep, wistful, yearning tone. It is also the track where I notice the bass and piano weaving with the music to make it more impactful. The bass is solid throughout the album and stands on its own. The drums also are on point and punchy when needed to be, but not married to a single style or method; the drummer keeps the band well-tied together.
Lyrically I read this song as a reminisce and a yearning for adventure. However, this one is more on an emotional tone, and again displays a meta-story going on for the entirety of the album.
Plasticbrain
This track was a favourite among at least some of the band. The energy with which it was performed makes it one of the Key Tracks of this album.
Musically again, different style than the previous tracks, but not a total departure. The classic structure combined with the unique mix of instrumentals (and I have to say again. Each band member shines either together or in their part. So single instrument takes 'the show' in the entire album. It has the feeling of an album with every member contributing)
Lyrically I have a story theory; given the sci-fi presence of the album, to me, this track makes me think of someone either uploaded into a post-human (post-furry?) network or linked to some computer mentally. And on a spin, unable to return to the previous way of seeing the world. An almost positive acknowledgment of the loss of self associated with such a change.
Scattered Skies
This track starts with an almost retro industrial beat before flowing more organically. The refrain ‘The quiet part out loud’ seems especially haunting in this track and does tend to earworm.
The lyrics describe a bleak and dystopian world where the skies are polluted and industrialised, and people have lost their connection to nature and themselves. The "man in red" is perhaps a leader or figurehead who is bedridden and powerless, as the birds no longer sing and the world is dominated by "metal minds" and "engines of destruction." Following the album’s general theme, this song tends to have a transhumanist note but with a much bleaker tone.
Again, the lyrics “He made his family from the earth And in the dearth of bodies free from flaws” suggest someone making a mechanical civilisation. But these creations seem to be coming to a singularity, a self-awareness as reflected in “We don’t know who we are, And time and time we’ve had this dream.”
Despite the darkness, there is a glimmer of hope in the form of "our spirits," who shout out a message of unity and individuality to the "tower" or those in power. The final stanza suggests that the last surviving person in this world struggles to differentiate between good and evil, but also has the power to create and imbue life into the sculptures he crafted. The repeated phrase "the quiet part out loud"refers to the newly bloomed feelings in the “man in red” that cannot connect to. But in the end:
“When he stretches out his rod, Finding and reminding, All the faces that he sculpted out of steel, The crystal heart that beats inside their bodies, He had always made to feel” implies his creations were always able to feel emotion and self-awareness. Still, now he no longer feels these things.
Imperfect Vision
This track starts with a robust balladic structure, setting the tone immediately. There is a bit of a galloping manner between stanzas that express a level of anxiety that the lyrics reflect.
The refrain “Get me out of this town” is followed by an impactful break, the first appearance of which is followed by an excellent, but not too long, jazzy piano solo. This said, the slide from energetic and anxious to calm and focused only amplifies the underlying tension of the track and the feeling of panic implied.
The narrator has gone on an excursion that has taken them out of their comfort zone and exposed them to a harsh reality. They are overwhelmed by the suffering they witness, including burning air, tortured wails, and tears on the face of a protester. The repeated refrain of "runaway" expresses the narrator's desperation to escape from this reality and find a place of safety and peace. The different variations of this phrase, such as "hideaway" and "turn away," suggest that the narrator is considering various options for escape.
The song itself, given the time-frame in which the album was produced, serves as an allegory for the social unrest in the world in the last few years and the stifling entrapment provided by the COVID pandemic.
The song’s final lines refer to "veiled angels" who have "wrapped up everyone," which seems to suggest a sense of finality or resignation.
Overall, the lyrics convey a sense of helplessness and a desire to escape difficult situations. The repeated refrain of "run away" highlights the urgency of this desire. At the same time, the various variations of the phrase suggest that there may not be a straightforward or easy solution to the narrator's problems.
No New Messages
First of all? Musically? This song is excellent; there seem to be four entirely separate 'movements', as I call them in my dumb head. Additionally, that single drum that starts on 'give me a call' is shiverous and impactful. It makes me think of a yearning steady heartbeat and builds so much delightful tension. 'Far and Wise these waveforms hide' is so dramatic and stately, evoking that intense yearning, punctuated by the tonal shift of 'I'll be waiting while' and returning to form after is just... It earworms and makes me feel longing.
Storywise, I get the impression of someone who has been in cryosleep on and off for ages, looking for a connection from a dark and unpopulated universe, yearning for that contact without real hope until the very end.
Cat's Paw
This track gives me a very 70's psychedelic vibe, and of all the songs reminds me of the strongest of Rush. It has a very... craftsman's tone? It puts me in mind of someone making something musically. Like a blacksmith or engineer, but very psychedelic-prog.
With my understanding of reading the lyrics? I almost want to say someone is brewing LSD. In this case, I don't read a super deep meaning in the lyrics themselves, but I am not at all disappointed as it seems a more straightforward lyrical theme expertly delivered that again earworms. I especially like gated flange(?) that gives it such an ethereal vibe and makes me want to join in with whatever shenanigans are going down. That strong chorus has been pumping my fist every time.
Ocean Glass
This track... Of all the tracks on this album, this one makes me cry every time. Part of this, I am sure, as this is the one track I 100% know the meaning of and the the personal connections I have.
This is the anthem of missed connections and lost friends. The whole song up to 'If the fates would have dared' and the slow mournful tone feels a setup to the tone switch at 3:25 to take those feelings that have been gently caressed and almost angrily grasp them with both hands.
"Reaching out across the years
There was nothing in this silence that we treasured
We’ve known trials, we’ve known tears
We’ve known pain and hardships beyond any measure."
It is my breaking point when the tears start hitting hard. "There was nothing in this silence that we treasured" is just... Fuck, I am crying again just writing this. The chorus of the song:
"But you’re trying to wind that watch
When the clock’s all but stopped
In the years you will find
You can’t just hit rewind"
Also just... It makes me want to reach out and make contact with people I have fallen out of touch with, and look them in the eyes and tell them they are important to me.
This song makes me want to be a better person.
Then, after all that buildup, release, and tears of hearts-blood going on, at 5:40 the tone changes again to become caressing and even soothing. A wistful smile and a faint hope accompany the tears that are formed and running down your face... It IS better late than never because you never know when you won't have that opportunity again. The final notes after the final chorus, seem a comforting hug of understanding.
Very few times in my life have I been able to send someone a song and express EXACTLY how I feel, and this is it. Listening to this song is an emotionally exhausting journey, and frankly, I don't know how you can even sing it without breaking down.
It might not be the BEST (But EVERY song is excellent) song on the album, but it is the most important song on the album.
Second Sight
I must call out the bassist and drummer who start this track solid. The organs kicking in make it nice and creamy. I especially love the flange (?) effect on the chorus. It gives it an almost ethereal feel while still solid grounding with the drums and organ driving. I admit, occasionally I wish the backing vocals had a bit more clarity, but I can understand the need for a balanced mix.
"Buried under all these pasts!" Have a transition at the end that makes me think strongly of Nobuo Uematsu.
Lyrics-wise, my interpretation is of a person who is cursed with foreknowledge. It reminds me of a (either real or in a book I read) folktale of the person cursed by the gods to know the future, not knowing that foreknowledge destroys one of the most critical parts of the human condition, hope.
A Different Light
This is a very piano and vocal forward piece, arranged in just the right spot, bridging with Endless Routes transition track, again making me think of Nobuo Uematsu. This track prompts a tone shift in the album itself. I have noticed a tendency in many of your songs in what I refer to as the 3/4ths tone shift, where the music seems to transform in its last quarter. This is good. This is the tone shift for the ALBUM, Endless Routes to A Different Light.
The piano introduction is tender and soothing, as the whole song tends to be, the vocals cutting in with a haunting harmony. The echo on the drums, again, makes the piece feel dreamlike and tender.
Lyrically this seems almost a loving lullaby; it is tender and as with many songs in this album, wistful. This song makes me want to curl up lovingly with someone in front of a fire, letting our closeness and regard speak more than words ever can.
It's Mine
Love this track; it starts so classic rock and powerfully. Again, the drumming is perfectly composed. The tempo and tone change after the first stanza is impactful, setting up the scene. The galloping tone that takes place with the guitar and drums gives a feeling of forward motion and action. It has a nice and playful tone, and I have to say this is the most FUN track of the album. The organs after "Watch history—and our future!—in the making" make me think of montages and rock ballads of yore in the best way.
Storywise? The most yinglet song on the album! Meaning, it seems to me, to be pretty heavy TF themed. I am picturing some space scavengers drinking a TF potion and becoming the things they feel they are in their hearts. The song itself seems to thematically represent that choice, the drinking, and subsequent transformation in music in a way that just... works.
Deeper Space
This is the best song on the album. Slightly reminiscent of The Muse, but it has your fingerprints all about it. It has such an earworm to it; it is one of the tracks I am always down to listen to and make my attempt to sing along to. The chorus is so powerful it sends shivers down my spine, and my heart jumps into my throat. That synth arp? Haunting. The band is at peak performance, and there is not a single thing I would never have done differently with this track. Masterpiece. Thank you for making this.
Lyrically? I might have an odd take on this song, and I hope the reader will forgive me. I feel this song is an expression of the mind moments before death. I could write so much more, but... That says it all. Anything I write to describe the feelings and impact of this track will seem trite and contrived—a must-listen.
Very powerful song.
Best Friends
This is an excellent ending track, leaving on an upbeat turn. This also has a serious classic rock ballad feel, and it is wholly appropriate. It gives a nice mood uplift after the solemn and intense tones of Deeper Space.
I see this as a song of self-acceptance. An understanding that the greatest obstacle to happiness is yourself. And rather than resenting and hating yourself, you should be comfortable with who you are inside.
Final review? 10/10
Rankings:
Best: Deeper Space
Most Important: Ocean Glass
Most Fun: It's Mine
It is important to note that I did not find any track lacking on this album. I especially appreciate the title track, Starlight's Castaways in setting the tone and letting the listener know THIS is different. This is... Us. Again, the album can be found https://whatstrangebeasts.bandcamp......ghts-castaways Please support the artists!
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