STRFKR: Reptilians Review

Artist: STRFKR (Starfucker)
Album: Reptilians
Label: Polyvinyl

Would a rose, by any other name, smell as sweet? In the case of indie electro band Starfucker, they seem to be in pursuit of their own “rose”. In the past three years, they have been known as PYRAMID, Pyramiddd, STRFKR, and finally, their not-safe-for-work moniker. All the name changes make it difficult to keep up with the band, and their latest might keep parents from letting their teenagers go out to see them live or buy their records, but raunchy name aside, the band creates catchy synth-heavy pop tunes worthy of mass appeal.

STRFKR has already achieved some commercial success, with “Rawnald Gregory Erickson the Second” from their 2008 self-titled debut being featured in a Target commercial.

Reptilians, the latest album, features more indie electro-pop goodness, likening them to bands like MGMT, Passion Pit, Ratatat, and Chromeo. Every song is catchy and works well on its own or together as a full-on indie dance album, which sets STRFKR apart from the bands that they resemble. There’s a richness to Reptilians, from the addictive hook-laden “Bury Us Alive” to the Flaming Lips-esque title track. Songs like “Julius” are evocative of days spent at the arcade and Flock of Seagulls hairdos, while songs like “Hungry Ghost” and “Quality Time” sample British philosopher Alan Watts, giving them a more ethereal feel.

Overall, Reptilians delivers that which seems to be missing lately in electro-pop music, especially to those who loved MGMT’s 2007 Oracular Spectacular but were disappointed by 2010′s Congratulations. STRFKR prove they can create a solid dance album and will soon be out from behind the shadows of their electro predecessors. Now if they could just change that name again….

Rating:  

By Jessica P. Wallin

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