Greta Van Fleet takes on “Starcatcher”: A Majestic Journey
By Kaleigh Gieraltowski
Photos courtesy of Neil Krug
Nashville-based rock band, Greta Van Fleet is shooting for the stars, as their third studio album Starcatcher is set to drop this week. If you’ve listened to Greta before, this new album is unlike their previous work as they’ve expanded horizons and created a raw, uncut sound that transcends the rules of rock and roll.
Historically, the band is known for their profound storytelling skills beginning as early as 2017 in their debut record From the Fires. Josh Kiszka and his bandmates have always incorporated meaningful lyrics that make listeners feel as though they are living vicariously inside a film. Whether that be about love, war, friendship, spirituality or even Josh Kiszka’s jumpsuits, Greta Van Fleet knows how to turn casual listeners into fans by drawing them in with a good storyline. Starcatcher is no exception to this phenomenon as the album is laced with addictive guitar solos and a 10-song tracklist that touches on many gripping subjects.
Guitarist Jake Kiszka is one of the most exuberant leading talents of this generation of music. That is proven to be true with the first song off their tracklist “Fate Of The Faithful.” Bassist and keys master Sam Kiszka rings in the first chords of the album with a lulling tune on the piano immediately following the enticing uproar of drummer Danny Wagners’ sticks, smashing in this new era. This first song takes its spot as the lead into a new and exotic universe that Greta Van Fleet has designed as Josh Kiszka sings, “We fight for the faithful / but instead we burn.”
Following this, a lighter acoustic influenced ballad “Waited All Your Life” is the second song on the tracklist. This is a beautifully balanced medley including a peaceful yet encapsulating chorus. Although the band has taken an initiative to create this alternate universe, there are songs on Starcatcher that are more directly related to the members themselves. Track four, “Sacred The Thread,” tells a personal story about the members on stage’s outfits, primarily Josh Kiszka’s jumpsuits. This song can be interpreted light-heartedly as the lyrics discuss sequins, colours, gems and trim. However, what should really be taken from this track is Josh Kiszka’s tranquility and fearlessness to use fashion as a way of expression while performing. “Sacred The Thread” is a dauntless and powerful serenade that will leave a long lasting impact in the world of rockstar style.
Leaning back into the Starcatcher universe, “Runway Blues” is a prime example of how unique this album is compared to previous Greta Van Fleet work. Though the song is only a minute and seventeen seconds long, “Runway Blues” is one of the most fast-paced and rapturous tracks on the album. You can hear its exciting details of improvisation contrary to past records, where the band has discussed how intense their writing process can be. With this new style of recording, you can tell there was a different drive in the studio, as this track makes you feel like you are rocking in the garage with them as they perform organically right in front of you. There is something so intimate about that first take of a song, and hearing their ideas coincide with one another on a track as unique as “Runway Blues” is one of the best touches to Starcatcher.
Moving onto the sixth track, “The Indigo Streak” is a highlight on this album as it stood out to me as a focal point in Starcatchers’ storyline. The song kicks off with a punchy guitar intro that will immediately rile up a crowd as it’s laced with anticipation, making this a possible great opener for a show. “The Indigo Streak” amplifies itself from the other tracks with the use of intoxicating harmonies and Josh Kiszka's iconic high register belt that are beautifully crafted within.
As the album comes to a close, tracks like “Meeting The Master” and “Farewell For Now” are the perfect touch to end Starcatchers’ alluring journey. Both songs were earlier released, as “Meeting The Master” was the first single to drop. Rightfully so, this track takes its place as one of the most captivating stories the band has yet to tell. As the lyrics teach you about a glorious master and his devout followers. The band most recently dropped “The Falling Sky” as their newest single; another lively track full of fun riffs and cryptic tales.
Greta Van Fleet has yet again produced a rock and roll masterpiece that breaks through the wall of stereotypes with a new take on cutting-edge sound. The band has done a magnificent job on surprising listeners with a forceful sound and lyrics that can be up to interpretation. My only complaint is that the album is not longer, as your first listen will leave you itching for more. The Starcatcher journey takes off officially on July 21st, on all streaming platforms, following closely behind is opening night of the Starcatcher World Tour, kicking off in Nashville on July 24th. You won’t want to miss them soaring into this new era!
