Staff Reviews

Nada Surf - The Stars Are Indifferent To Astronomy

Review by Alex Yau

Nada Surf sound just as vibrant as any new band half their age.»

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city slang release nada surf's sixth album, 'the stars are indifferent to astronomy'. 'the stars' leaps out of the gate in a blaze of guitars, swarming distortion and a sweet melody riding atop 'clear eye clouded mind.' throughout, the crackerjack rhythm section of lorca and elliot puts the power in nada surf's pop, lorca playing equal parts pedestal and filigree, elliot ever the stylish dynamo. the tempos are high, but the songs bristle with hooks, breathtaking changes, and nada surf's trademark genius bridges. the educated ear will hear the influence of many bands from '60s brit-pop to post-punk and vintage indie, and yet there is an unmistakable nada surf sound: a certain rhythm section groove, introspective chord shapes and the unique emotional weight to caws's voice, both boyish and very soulful, a combination of wisdom and vulnerability that can admit to being 'moved to a tear by a subway breakdancer.' 'the stars are indifferent to astronomy' continues the notion of music as an alternative reality, and songs as things you can keep by your side for inspiration and support. which is what makes nada surf a truly beloved band.
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