Before I delve into the infinite amount of praise I have oozing out of every orifice for Starfucker, I would like to emphasize the brilliance of this particular show. Sure, the Echo is somewhat small (a hole in the wall to be more precise), but the energy was incomprehensible. It was quite possibly the only show that completely captured my attention since I began writing for PopWreckoning almost a year ago. Even the openers were inappropriately enthralling, which is difficult to find amongst relatively unknown indie acts. And Starfucker is no exception, considering their sizeable “hipster” following is quite impressive for a band with a mere two years in the music industry.
Starfucker was preceded performance-wise by fellow Oregonian act Deelay Ceelay. Their set was startlingly unique, and was comprised of two drummers, layered over eclectic electronica, intensified further via artsy, psychedelic slideshow and flashing strobe lights. It seemed quite ironic for the Echo to have been one of the initial venues for the underground rave scene because Deelay Ceelay completely and totally captured that essence in their trance/drum and bass vibe: a vibe that could possibly be referred to as a melodically induced narcotic. The highlight of their performance was an up-tempo trance remix of TI’s “Whatever You Like” that energetically and climatically set the stage for the entrance of our beloved Starfucker.
Despite the heartbreaking news that the boys will soon be shifting monikers, their reason for doing so is feasible. With the recent onslaught of exposure (Target commercials, Weeds, etc) a mellower name wouldn’t send the wrong message to an ignorant audience (even though their name is absolutely perfect for them). The change was imminent though, these boys have a lot of potential that obviously has not been taken seriously by most as of yet, and their name shared a good portion of the blame. Enthusiastically charming, Starfucker presented us with a radiant array of indie/electronica ecstasy coupled with a ridiculously charismatic stage presence. What more could you ask for? Their next show is scheduled for their hometown, Portland, Oregon! on Halloween, and will probably be twice as epic as my experience at the Echo. If you’re in the area, you should definitely check it out.
The band leaves for the European leg of their tour at the end of November after a show in San Francisco on November 7th.
Starfucker: myspace | @ sxsw | @ manhattan room
