Every Monday through Friday, we deliver a different song as part our Song of the Day podcast subscription. This podcast features exclusive KEXP in-studio performances, unreleased songs, and recordings from independent artists that our DJs think you should hear. Each and every Friday we offer songs by local artists. Today’s selection, featured on the Morning Show with John Richards, is “Bury Us Alive” by Starfucker from their latest effort Reptilians available from Polyvinyl Record Co.
Portland electro-darlings Starfucker are back with their second full-length (and first for Polyvinyl) released earlier this spring. Though just as infectious and danceable as ever, the inspiration for this album is much more solemn. Lyrically, Reptilians is about death and the end of the world though you might not know it from the seemingly joyful synthy keys and driving beats Starfucker are known for. Only a few of the song titles give you a glimpse into what was in Josh Hodges’ mind as he wrote the lyrics for this album shortly after his grandmother passed away. Titles like today’s song “Bury Us Alive,” “Death as a Fetish” and “Hungry Ghost” might sound more appropriate for a Slayer album but the crave-worthy melodies will leave you less than depressed.
Put on your dancing shoes if you head out to see this group live. I caught them down in Austin last month shortly after their drummer got arrested on bogus charges. It was a hot sweaty mess but so worth it. You can catch Starfucker twice this month in Seattle with hometown favorites Champagne Champagne, who are on a national tour with them. Check out some all-ages action at The Vera Project on 4/23 and a 21+ show at The Crocodile on 4/26. More info on their MySpace page.
In the meantime, here they are performing “The White of Noon” earlier this year:
One Comment
Twas vocalist/guitarist/turntablist/synthist/whatever-ist Ryan Biornstad not drummer Keil Corcoran that got arrested in Austin. Thanks for the link though!