Starset's Halo Glistens From Start To Finish

Ohio group Starset bills itself as cinematic rock. How appropriate for the summer movie season where white knuckle, big budget eye candy essentially hijacks the screen. Starset doesn't lack for action from start to finish throughout "Halo". The guys do away with first through third gear altogether. That's where the firepower is at its most intense. Adam Gilbert deserves his share of the credit for juicing up the momentum because his drumming applies sizzle to the stove top and doesn't let up until the last note slams into place. For a real treat and insight into how stupendously this band functions as a unit give the bridge a good strong listen. I'm flat out floored. The aural tastes rising from the broth leave me wanting seconds if not thirds. Lead vocalist Dustin Bates nails the spirit of what soundtrack grade rock's supposed to sound like. His pipes cut through any and every drop of clutter imaginable. Ron DeChant and Brock Richards lend their own vocal skills to this epic track. Keep your core audience engaged and it will follow you wherever you happen to be travelling. Starset didn't forget to apply that knowledge. Their intensity stays ever present so the crowds can really work up a sweat. As this blog has amply demonstrated I give props to those employing steady chord changes. Starset doesn't go overboard but doesn't sound stuck in one slot on the stage staring at its collective navel, pondering the worn out life sucks dynamic. If anything that much needed exuberant zing pops up over and over. I feel the entire tribe can lay claim to equal parts octane. The accompanying video seeks to show you what Starset's concept leans towards. There's intrigue, pathos, and yes, outer space action. One thing Starset gets right is taking full advantage of its turn in the spotlight. "Halo" comes right at critics and casual listeners alike with bombast where it's necessary and technical flourishes where those are called for. Better still, they don't go overboard in presentation. You're given a nibble but not expected to gorge on the whole entree. "Halo" may not be straight edged but the twinkles it gives off are undeniably, if you'll pardon the cosmos related wordplay...stellar.