Starflyer 59 My Island
Tooth & Nail Records TND64004 September 12th, 2006
By Jason Jordan
While Martin has utilized several different musicians over the years, SF59 havent faltered in the least, proving theyre capable of releasing high-grade pop rock that blends depressive, low-key vocals with music that is chipper, restrained, or a mixture of both depending on what the situation calls for. And of course, My Island is another record worth pursuing for long-time fans of this overlooked, underappreciated group.
Aside from the bizarre decision to revisit their shoegazer roots on I Am the Portuguese Blues (2004), Starflyer 59 have been settling into a defining sound that is manifested on works such as Old (2003), Talking Voice Vs. Singing Voice (2005), and this years My Island. Most of the responsibilities fall under Martins jurisdiction, and his dreamy vocals are not only unique, but one of the bands trademarks. The bitter lyrical content is essential, too, so theres naturally an abundance of two-liners that unintentionally invoke pity on the part of the listener:
The Frontman
Im miserable, Ive got my mind set / Most of all I think Im through with it
What made you think you were one of them / Whos gonna make it
I Win
So what am I supposed to say / My talents an acquired taste
Well thats just what you say / When youve missed your train
Ideas for the Talented
My ideas they outweigh / All the talent I own
Including the songs mentioned above, Nice Guy, My Island, and Lifeguard also shine. Unfortunately, however, Division, Mic the Mic, Its Alright Blondie, and Pearl of Great Price dont sparkle, and are thus technically weaker than their counterparts. Starflyer 59 havent made a perfect batch to date, but even the numbers that leave something to be desired are not poor they simply fail to dazzle. Nonetheless, the artwork is impressive, and in a shocking turn of events, we actually get the lyrics this time!
In the 13 years that Starflyer 59 have existed, mastermind Jason Martin has delivered a vast amount of albums that are incredibly consistent despite the bands periodic, stylistic changes. My Island doesnt exactly topple any of their previous entries, but it doesnt pale in comparison either. I do prefer Old, though, and that fact probably wont be changing anytime soon.
7.5/10
UMs Review Rating Scale
Official Starflyer 59 Website
Official Tooth & Nail Records Website
Tooth & Nail Records TND64004 September 12th, 2006
By Jason Jordan
While Martin has utilized several different musicians over the years, SF59 havent faltered in the least, proving theyre capable of releasing high-grade pop rock that blends depressive, low-key vocals with music that is chipper, restrained, or a mixture of both depending on what the situation calls for. And of course, My Island is another record worth pursuing for long-time fans of this overlooked, underappreciated group.
Aside from the bizarre decision to revisit their shoegazer roots on I Am the Portuguese Blues (2004), Starflyer 59 have been settling into a defining sound that is manifested on works such as Old (2003), Talking Voice Vs. Singing Voice (2005), and this years My Island. Most of the responsibilities fall under Martins jurisdiction, and his dreamy vocals are not only unique, but one of the bands trademarks. The bitter lyrical content is essential, too, so theres naturally an abundance of two-liners that unintentionally invoke pity on the part of the listener:
The Frontman
Im miserable, Ive got my mind set / Most of all I think Im through with it
What made you think you were one of them / Whos gonna make it
I Win
So what am I supposed to say / My talents an acquired taste
Well thats just what you say / When youve missed your train
Ideas for the Talented
My ideas they outweigh / All the talent I own
Including the songs mentioned above, Nice Guy, My Island, and Lifeguard also shine. Unfortunately, however, Division, Mic the Mic, Its Alright Blondie, and Pearl of Great Price dont sparkle, and are thus technically weaker than their counterparts. Starflyer 59 havent made a perfect batch to date, but even the numbers that leave something to be desired are not poor they simply fail to dazzle. Nonetheless, the artwork is impressive, and in a shocking turn of events, we actually get the lyrics this time!
In the 13 years that Starflyer 59 have existed, mastermind Jason Martin has delivered a vast amount of albums that are incredibly consistent despite the bands periodic, stylistic changes. My Island doesnt exactly topple any of their previous entries, but it doesnt pale in comparison either. I do prefer Old, though, and that fact probably wont be changing anytime soon.
7.5/10
UMs Review Rating Scale
Official Starflyer 59 Website
Official Tooth & Nail Records Website
