In my adventures exploring the local scene, I’ve had the privilege of getting to know Starbenders, one of the last true rock and roll refugees left in the city. From the moment I heard “Downtown” off their 2016 LP Heavy Petting, I fell in love with their iconic sound that blends elements of glam, punk, and modern rock into its own delicious ear candy. I’ve been waiting for my opportunity to see them live ever since.
This past December I saw they had a show scheduled for January at the Masquerade alongside another rock and roll gem in South Carolina’s Seven Year Witch, and I knew I had to be there. Both bands were supporting Asking Alexandria’s Danny Worsnop on his solo tour, but frankly the real reason to be there was to catch the undercard.
After seven months of touring, Starbenders gave their steadfast fans a show to remember. The group took full advantage of the hometown energy, bringing down the house with an impassioned performance that made Worsnop’s set feel cookie-cutter by comparison. Kimi Shelter’s captivating aura cast a spell over the crowd while bassist Aaron Lecesne and guitarist Kriss Tokaji crafted an interwoven soundscape of headbanging bliss, all architected by drummer Emily Moon’s concise rhythms. Individually, the foursome exhibited a refined talent that speaks to how they got signed to Sumerian Records. However, the true magic surrounding their chemistry was seen that night in how they collectively came together for the pleasure of sharing their hyper-charged and ecstatic songs. Shelter even physcially baptized two fans on stage, ushering them into the (un)holy church of rock and roll. That’s something I’ve never seen before and likely never will again.
If you missed Starbenders’ show at the Masquerade, don’t fret. On Valentine’s Day this year, the band are dropping their new much-anticpated new LP Love Potions. The 14-track album will feature previously released singles “Holy Mother” and “London,” and will mark the group’s first recording for Sumerian Records. In a statement, Shelter had the following to say about the upcoming record:
“There comes a time when dreams turn into reality. We have to be careful what we wish for, as anything goes in the land of our creation. The friction of this existence is my deepest source of inspiration. The making of Love Potions pushed us beyond the walls of our perceived limitations. This record is a living diary of a band that exists between two worlds. Please be warned that upon listening, you will become a part of a ritual that is in motion. You will be a part of our story. If you’re with us, you must be kind, you must be brave and above all, you must be free.”
To help promote Love Potions, Starbenders will be hitting the road for a short run of dates, including a special album release show at the Masquerade on Feb. 13 with guests New Year’s End and Forrest Isn’t Dead. Check out the full list of dates, along with a special tour video, below:
Starbenders Tour Dates
Feb. 13 – The Masquerade – Atlanta, GA w/ New Year’s End, Forrest Isn’t Dead
Feb. 14 – Deep Ellum Prom Party – Dallas, TX
Feb. 16 – The Underground – Mesa, AZ
Feb. 19 – Brick + Mortar – San Francisco, CA
Feb. 20 – Los Globos – Los Angeles, CA
More Info
Web: starbenders.band
Facebook: @starbenders
Instagram: @starbenders4real
SoundCloud: @StarBenders
Twitter: @STARBENDERS