Do you remember when rock music realized that it could be more than hair spay, harmonizing about partying prowess and or body parts?   Ah yes, alternative music . . . the music category for bands who didn’t fit the mold and frankly, didn’t want to be categorized.

Certain Star’s release ‘Wired for sound’ has hit this ideal on the head.  Music and songs because we must, not because we want to be . . . stars.   ‘Wired for sound’ also delivers a unique flavor or personality for each song.   From a surfer, fun, 50’s drum beat ‘highschoolalloveragain’ chant (you’ve got to love a song with the lyrics ‘I’m in a band, can my band play with your band?)  to the thoughtful ‘Slow down quickly’.   There is also an overall punk feel throughout, which adds to the cohesive nature of the band.  Each song stands out as an individual, but you always know you are listening to Certain Stars.

I wouldn’t say there are song stories here, more music and lyrics that reflect a mood and add to the overall feel that Certain Stars is throwing at the airwaves.   Don’t get me wrong; the songwriting for Certain Stars is strong (feel free to use that in the verse of your next song . . . ).    If you think about why you are enjoying the basic and fun nature of the songs, it all comes back to the writing.  

The song ‘Wired for sound’ as an example sets the stage for this play.   It is a guitar driven verse, chorus song with minimalist lyric approach.   As many artists have proven, sometimes this is all you need.   Playing on the unique personality theme, ‘Slow down quickly’ uses a different map.   Here you will see a more polished production, including background harmony and the birth of a story.   Taking this serious tone has added to my overall enjoyment of the CD.

Sounds like:   Teenage Fanclub, That Petrol Emotion (check out Chemicrazy), REM

RM’s Favorite:   ‘Slow down quickly’

To Sum It Up:  This is a great rock CD with good songs, period.    Certain Stars excel by not taking themselves too seriously while still being able to rock out.   No heavy metal rap or drum machine beats or even Justin Timberlake . . . just good songs, unique personality and an overall fun CD.