Spielbergs
Distant Star
(By the Time It Gets Dark)
4.5/5
Mix a trio of Norwegian musicians, a pinch of early-2000’s nostalgia, some drums, and guitar, and what you have is a recipe for Spielbergs’ debut EP, Distant Star. A hybrid of Blink-182, Gob, and HIM, this group delivers the angsty, first-pumping stuff of my teens.
As is often indicative of this genre, I understood a handful of the lyrics vocalist Mads Baklien sang throughout each track—although, in fairness to him, he’s multi-tasking (and killing it) on guitars and synth. Bassist Stian Brennskag and drummer Christian Løvhaug provide a powerful (bordering on overpowering), pumping pulse to the album.
The exception to this instrument-heavy formula is the final track, “Setting Sun.” The lyrics-focused ballad slows down the pace, giving all three musicians a chance to shine.
Unfortunately, at five tracks, their debut is on the short side, leaving me craving more.