Nineteen-seventy’s power pop never sounded so good. Portland-based four piece Daystar may borrow inspiration liberally from bands like Big Star, Wings and Badfinger, but their songs still manage to smack of originality. The Complete Recordings is a masterclass in building, taking the foundation of some of the best post-Beatles bands to ever commit to wax and then erecting a wildly satisfying modern take on those sounds.
Comprised of veterans of various Northwest bands, the members of Daystar – despite playing in groups that were previously all over the genre map – shared a fondness for classic power pop and it shows. Songs like the beautifully sublime “Warped Reality” and “A Lot Of Love” are vaguely nostalgic, with a timeless vibe. Elsewhere, the band shows they’re not afraid of volume with up tempo tracks like “Buttons & Brass.” Chill and mellow or turn-it-up rock and roll, The Complete Recordings has a vibe for just about any mood.
Daystar – The Complete Recordings/12 tracks/Self-Released/2019 / Bandcamp /