Website © 2005 by Tyler Carey
All Content Creator-Owned
Starline Theorie
Obon
Azra Records, 2004
by Dr. Christian Carey On their latest full length, Obon, Starline Theorie combines indie rock with elements of electronica and, here and there, a splash of hip hop or world music. "Kobayashi" juxtaposes Jane Lui's soaring vocals (a major standout on the record) with short bursts of rapping; underneath are spacey guitars and syncopated, varied percussion. "God" features a propulsive groove (Greg Wood's bass-playing is particularly fine) and atmospheric guitars, as well as an earnest, catchy chorus hook. "Friend of a Friend" is a stylish slice of spacious electropop.
Some selections are bit more quirky in vibe, but effective nonetheless. "Dalian Skies" features incantatory vocals and a flute solo by guest musician Vyki Hernandez, as well as world-beat influenced drumming. "Friend of a Friend" has the rapping front and center, changing the group's vibe from their usual "rocktronica" to more of a trip hop ambience. Still, the apparent disjunction of styles throughout Obon is part of what makes Starline Theorie such an exciting group to hear; they consistently keep their music fresh and unpredictable.
-July 3, 2005