ALBUM REVIEW: Stargod – Astronoid
Boston’s ASTRONOID have enjoyed a steady trajectory since 2016’s astonishing debut Air. Since then, the band’s stock has continued to rise with 2019’s self-titled effort and 2022’s Radiant Bloom cementing their status as one of the more unique and pleasant sounding bands within the heavy music world as their sound continues to evolve and mutate. Now, on the back off a jaunt supporting BLINK-182 comes Stargod; the band’s most direct and focused approach to date.
Largely, this is down to it’s length, Stargod is a lean and precise record and although this approach is a step away from their post-metal roots, it still leaves a lasting impression. Sure, the songs might be shorter, but when there is a vintage heavy metal flair to the riffs and gorgeous synth melodies at play, all is forgiven.
Stargod sees ASTRONOID deliver a synth-infused metal hybrid that when it is at its best, it’s euphoric. Take first single for example, Third Shot, a ready-made anthem born for the big stage. Punchy riffs, slick soloing and exquisite vocals from Brett Boland in a chorus that is nothing short of a triumph, it’s ASTRONOID firing on all cylinders. Throughout the record, uplifting euphoria is the order of the day. Album opener Embark flies out the gates as a blend of soaring guitars, up-tempo striding rhythm and angelic vocals from Boland ignites the album in the best possible fashion while the likes of Love Weapon and Dream Protocol ’88 demonstrate slick thrash-tinged riffing that calls back to the band’s self-described ‘dream thrash’ core.
Previous records has seen the band push their sound into new pastures, and Stargod sees perhaps some of the boldest strides yet. The title track is a synth-soaked ballad that really sees the band deliver pop hooks that really pleasantly pique the ears, whereas Depressed Mode sees the band fuse gorgeous harmonious leads with an effective synth bedrock to shine in the album’s later stages.
For all the record does brilliantly, there are a few moments that don’t connect as well. Beneath The Lights feels a bit too refrained and it’s mid-tempo pacing feels a slog towards the end of its runtime, and Explosive – a fine track by its own merit – feels slightly flat sandwiched between album highlights Third Shot and Beneath the Lights.
Stargod might be ASTRONOID‘s most accessible and direct record to date, but do not let that detract from the quality on offer here. This is a record jam-packed full of special moments, wrapped in a blanket of euphoric bliss. Although there are moments that don’t quite land as well, it’s highs more than make up for it. As the nights draw in and the cold bites, Stargod can be a warm and companion indeed.
Rating: 8/10
Stargod is out now via 3DOT Recordings.
Like ASTRONOID on Facebook.
