“Starcatcher” – Greta Van Fleet
★★★★☆
Top Picks: “The Falling Sky,” “Sacred The Thread,” “The Indigo Streak”
Similar Artists: Rival Sons, The Black Keys, Led Zeppelin
The Grammy award winning band Greta Van Fleet is back and better than ever with new album Starcatcher. The Michigan musicians use this album to cement their sound and expand the lyrical themes of their previous works. All the while, the songs are, of course, grounded in their rock and roll roots.
The album begins with a tune full of layered guitar riffs and heavy drums. This type of instrumental is what fans have come to associate with Greta Van Fleet. It’s funky, it’s layered, and it’s interesting to listen to—a fact true of every track on the album. The song, “Fate Of The Faithful,” is a great introduction to the album at large, as it introduces listeners to both the soundscape and lyrical imagery that can be found throughout the rest of the work.
The project continues with tracks of the same nature, though “Waited All Your Life” feels a bit more folk than the rest of the tracks. The plucking guitar chords feel almost Fleetwood Mac inspired. Regardless, the lyrics of these tracks all explore the idea of an all-powerful master. Though it’s unclear who this figure is supposed to represent, God, death, and the music industry itself could all be potential interpretations.
In contrast to the first three tracks, “Sacred The Thread” deviates from this established lyrical structure. Released as the second single, this tune depicts the feeling of freedom that comes with self-expression. In fact, it seems to be a reflection of Josh Kiszka’s personal experience with clothing as a form of expression. Lyrics describe the sparkly, tight-fitting costumes the lead singer adorns for every show, and they speak to the feeling of freedom associated with these “sacred threads.” The track is a nice break from the heavily-veiled metaphors at the start of the album. Its message of self-exploration, self-expression, and self-love is both admirable and heart-warming.
The midpoint of the album hits with “Runaway Blues.” This track is a short interlude before the second (and arguably better) half of the album. “Frozen Light” depicts a much more personal story. The song speaks of “four brothers”—presumably band members Josh Kiszka (lead vocals), Jake Kiszka (guitar), Sam Kiszka (bass), and Daniel Wagner (drums)—who keep the others from feeling alone during times of turmoil. One lyric in particular speaks of souls searching in “dreams and gold”—likely a reference to the band’s last tour Dreams In Gold. Put together, this seems to be a heartfelt ode to the band’s comradery and the safety they find in each other. It’s a beautiful sentiment to hear.
Finally, the album comes to an end with “Farewell For Now.” This track is a wonderful close to the project, and it’s clearly a moment for the fans. The song illustrates the unity of the band and their fans together at shows. It speaks of moments they share throughout the night, the lengths they take to get ready for each other, and ultimately the farewell at the very end. In equal measure, this particular track is the band saying farewell to the listener at the end of the project. It’s a perfect goodbye at the end of the album.
Now, it’s hard to discuss a Greta Van Fleet project without also leaving a comment on Josh Kiszka’s vocals. His voice soars in impressive falsettos and strong belts. The vocal performances in this album, and all of the band’s previous albums, are otherworldly. More than anything, Kiszka’s voice is the core of the project. It’s the common thread that ties this album together.
People today are constantly arguing the existence of modern rock music, and to that I say, take one listen to this album—the band presents an undeniable rock album. Complete with the glitz and glam of 80’s rock, this project proves Greta Van Fleet is a defining member of the new rock generation. Starcatcher certainly solidifies the band’s personal style, and it truly highlights these four men as modern rock stars.
Greta Van Fleet On Tour Now. Get tickets here.