Para fãs de: Indie & Alternativo e Rock.
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Formed of Ben Byrne (drums), James Stelfox (bass), James Walsh (guitar, lead vocals) and Barry Westhead (keyboards), the original members met whilst studying at college near Wigan, England. Taking their name from a Tim Buckley album, the group took shape in early 2000, finding their sound through live shows. After recording their first demo, record companies took note of the act, with Starsailor finding several offers on the table that summer, choosing to sign with EMI.
Following an NME-sponsored tour, Starsailor released their debut single, “Fever,” in 2001, finding widespread critical acclaim in the process. Hailed as ‘Britain’s best new band,’ their first headline UK tour sold out quickly, before a second single, “Good Souls” appeared in April. It was not until September that their debut album, “Love Is Here,” appeared, bolstered by the success of their first Top Ten single, “Alcoholic.”
Tours followed, with Starsailor enjoying the critical acclaim that their debut received. Their second record, “Silence Is Easy,” took several years of work, finding difficulties with original producer, Phil Spector. It eventually arrived in 2004, reaching Gold status yet failing to match the success of its predecessor. Their third, 2006’s “On The Outside,” also failed to make the same impact, although it was a return to form with the quality of its songs.
In 2009, they enlisted Rolling Stones guitarist, Ron Wood, to help contribute to their fourth record, “All the Plans” released the same year. After the record, Starsailor went on an indefinite hiatus, not returning until 2014. They since reunited and performed at several festivals, including Summer in the City in the UK and Rock Zottegem in Belgium.
I saw Starsailor a few years back when they were an opening act. I'm really not much of a British band fan - it's nothing personal, I've just never liked that sound.
Starsailor is a bit different though. They've sort of embraced a more American sound. While this may put a lot of people off, I really enjoyed it. Their British roots still came through, especially on songs like Good Souls.
I was surprised when the lead singer broke out a harmonica for one of the songs. It was a totally unexpected bit that worked really well with the song. The set was rather short - they were just an opening act - but they did a lot with the time they had.
Overall, I really enjoyed the set. I think they could be a real standout band. I'd like to check out a full concert from them sometime. I think it would be a lot of fun. Many of the people in the crowd seemed to get more into the set as it went along, appearing a little confused at first at the hybrid sound. It was unique and fresh, which in this day and age, is a rarity. A very good opening act that could be a lot more.