Reptilians by STRFKR (Starfucker)
LABEL: Polyvinyl

STRFKR has been creating fun, feelgood tunes since their inception in 2007. The Portland-based outfit has made a name for itself via infectious tracks that are just too hard to resist. The band’s latest release, Reptilians, thrives on the use of synths, wailing guitars, loops, and falsetto vocals that seem to reach notes that are so high, that they’re sometimes too elevated to even see.

Reptilians is a conglomeration of undeniably catchy sounds that will certainly leave their mark on your ear’s memory. An album highlight is the title track which uses an addictive guitar riff to pull you in like prey, and then pounces on you with the first few hits of the drums. “Reptilians” is the kind of track that shows the full potential of STRFKR; its complexity shows just how talented the band could be.

Overall, STRFKR’s latest is no doubt a fun album to listen to (I’d easily bust this out at party); there are many tracks on Reptillians that even I—the most stubborn of dancers—will surely be compelled to move around to. However, Reptilians is also a polarizing album, showing the potential STRFKR has, while at the same time showing the lack of consistency in the band’s music. There are far too many tracks that sound similar, which is bound to leave listeners either bored or irritated. The album, though more enjoyable than not, comes off as tedious at times; but, it’s the kind of tedious that comprises complexity and stability.

STRFKR is a relatively young band, and certainly shows more promise than most. With a boost of steadiness and creativity, there is nowhere but up for STRFKR.


REVIEWED BY ADRIAN ROJAS
ADRIAN’S FAVES: “Born” • “Reptilians” • “The White of Noon”
Read more from Adrian on his blog, On the Importance of Being Rash

  Bury Us Alive by starfucker_usa

Starfucker /// Quality Time from Liberum Pictures on Vimeo.

+ Check out Groovemine’s review of STRFKR’s last release, B-sides

+ Visit STRFKR’s Soundcloud page for a series of mash-ups using STRFKR / Skeletron (a STRFKR side project) music with a capella vocals of some of your favorite rap songs by Gucci Mane, 50 Cent, Three 6 Mafia, Lil Jon, and Lil Wayne.