With “The Beast Goes On” Starbenders deliver a catchy blend of alternative rock, heavy pop and rock n’ roll, built around an aesthetic that balances accessible melodies with more unconventional touches. The album’s greatest strength lies in its ability to combine contrasting elements without losing its sense of identity. Dissonant passages, the interplay between acoustic and electric guitars and occasional punk rock influences add variety to the arrangements, while the heavier riffs provide a welcome edge to the record’s pop-oriented foundations. The vocals are another defining feature, possessing a distinctive tone that helps the band stand out. Layered harmonies and vocal polyphonies add depth to the mix, complementing the atmospheric qualities that run throughout the album. There is also an ethereal, almost ghostly character to certain passages, with chant-like vocals and theatrical melodies that occasionally bring Ghost to mind. Despite these qualities, “The Beast Goes On” gradually loses some of its initial impact. Although the material remains melodic and accessible, the songwriting becomes somewhat repetitive as the album progresses, making it harder to maintain the same level of engagement throughout. The combination of catchy hooks and heavier instrumentation is appealing, but it does not always develop into compositions that leave a lasting impression. To sum up, “The Beast Goes On” is an enjoyable record with a distinctive vocal identity and an appealing mix of rock influences. While its occasional lack of variety holds it back, its strongest moments make for a worthwhile listen.
♦ 7/10
Panos Niko
