By: Staff
Under Starling has released their much-anticipated album Murmurations, and the moment it dropped, we dove right in for a full dose of this band’s latest work. With an impressive 12 tracks, we wanted to get into at least half for you.
The album opens with “Hawthorn Tree,” a piece where guitars carry an undertone of anxiety and tension. The strumming is beautiful, but it’s anything but typical acoustic playing. As the vocals kick in, they double in intensity from the intro, opening into a chant-like call to “give in to your heart” with a solemn, powerful intensity. Layered with synths evoking an Irish folk feel, the vocals deliver a message of love and dedication. The song shifts into a literal ballad-style interlude, with a background beat that pulses like a heartbeat, accompanied by soft, whispering vocals. Then, the band returns with tremendous force, building into a smooth, powerful crescendo before flowing back into another interlude. This track captivates, keeping the listener fixated on its remarkable arrangement.
Next up we heard “Birdwatching,” and with a sweet, exhilarating guitar intro. The vocals emerge with a breathy, emphatic quality that immediately pulls you in. Under Starling excels at delivering an emotionally charged performance, and this track beautifully captures the emotions of a heartfelt relationship. The endearing moment arrives with the lyrics “you and me / birdwatching,” showcasing love’s gentle endurance through life’s simplest pleasures. The song’s arrangement features a captivating lead from the drums, driving the track forward in a staccato rhythm that holds your attention. As the intensity builds, you find yourself swept up by the growing vocals until the drums fade, leaving a yearning for their return. The song’s gospel-like chorus is profoundly powerful, with layered vocals that chant the beauty of life’s simple joys, stirring a deep sense of emotion in the listener.
Then, we fall into “Changeling,” which brings a solid indie-rock foundation that explodes early on with forceful beats and thrilling drum fills. The soundscape is cosmic yet grounded in a solid rock groove, creating a mesmerizing contrast. We loved the vocals, which sit at the forefront while the guitars spread out into the background in the mix, making it feel like the singing is directed straight into our ears. The track has massive builds, filled with intensity that keeps you on edge. It’s incredibly exciting!
“Dreamer” starts off with the poignant lyric, “I’m sorry about your friend but now I understand,” hinting at betrayal. The vocals build and soar, delivering raw, emotional depth. The line “the story ends with a sting / you’re a blackbird shot in the wing” is a powerful image, connecting deeply with the listener.
“The Laundry” opens with a stunning vocal swell. Each vocal display is supported by a musical arrangement that feels like it’s enveloping your senses. This amplifies the emotional message of each song, allowing it to fully resonate. With its calming, universal appeal, this track has radio-hit potential and will likely be a favorite among fans.
“Rat King” is a full-on explosion of rock, with growling guitars, a rumbling bassline, and drums that hit hard. The screaming vocals are an exciting twist, adding adrenaline and showcasing the band’s range. This track is a wild ride and a thrilling departure that’s sure to get listeners fired up!
With Murmurations, Under Starling proves they’re a band to watch. Their music delivers an exhilarating mix of emotion, power, and rock intensity, setting them on a course to make waves in 2025 and capture well-deserved attention in the music industry.
Don’t miss out on the sonic journey of Under Starling’s Murmurations! Stream the playlist now and share the album with your friends to spread the word about this incredible band!
Check out this latest release and listen to more of Under Starling on Spotify & YouTube.
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