Atlanta’s StarBenders have always tied their identity to ’70s glam rock, but despite the band’s retro outfits, the group is at their best when they mix vintage swagger with a modern rock edge. Such is the case with the band’s new single “Down & Out.” The track is a fierce entrance to 2017 from a band still riding the high of last year’s LP, Heavy Petting. According to guitarist/vocalist Kimi Shelter, “‘Down & Out’ is an apocalyptic pop song. You’re being told that everything will be alright while the world is on fire. This is what people who are tuned in and turned on face. Being a creature of love has left you exiled while those bent on evil descend upon your heart like vultures. Our freedom is found within dreams. We live on starlight.”
Like all the band’s releases, this single was produced by Institution Records’ Nico Constantine, but the track was mixed by Mark Needham and Will Brierre, who helped engineer the Killers’ albums. This influence brings out StarBenders’ more anthemic undertones, without losing their DIY edge. Though it may not be much of a departure from their previous work, “Down & Out” proves the band’s formula of positive energy, psychedelic lyrics, and mammoth hooks still brings the party.
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