STARDUST – Highway To Heartbreak

The Backstory

Riding high off the success of their independent EP release, it wasn’t long before Stardust was signed by Frontiers Records. The label believed in the band so much they teamed them up with two top-notch songwriters and producers. Mark Spiro (Bad English, House of Lords, Giant) and Swedish guitarist Tommy Denander (too many credits to mention) lent their years of experience for Stardust’s debut album Highway to Heartbreak.

The Album

“Runaway” kicks of the album with all of the elements you expect from AOR; pulsing keys, layered vocal harmonies, and strong emotions. Stardust makes a bold move by sequencing their “Heartbreaker” cover as the second track on the album. The band does Pat Benatar proud with their slightly modified version. Tim Keeley’s steady drum beat sets the pace on “Bullet to My Heart,” while vocalist Adam Steward puts his heart and abilities on display.

The clean acoustic strumming on “Perfect Obsession” is reminiscent of Poison’s “Every Rose Has Its Thorn.” The ballad is just as catchy as the latter. Shades of Journey are noticeable on “2nd Hand Love.” “Shout It Out Loud” is no doubt going to be the live show fan interaction song with its call a response chorus. Facey’s guitar lick on the power ballad “Can’t Stop Lovin’ You” reveals a strong Def Leppard influence.

The Verdict

Highway to Heartbreak is a fun ride back to the ’80 Arena Rock you grew up with. Stardust parallels a lot of their rock heroes throughout the album, but still hones in on a signature sound. Highway to Heartbreak is a strong debut by a band that is sure to grow with each new release. It doesn’t hurt Stardust to have a little help from two ’80s unsung musicians who helped craft the Melodic Rock/AOR genre.

Tracklist

1. Runaway
2. Heartbreaker
3. Bullet to My Heart
4. Perfect Obsession
5. 2Nd Hand Love
6. Shout It Out
7. Can’t Stop Loving You
8. Eye to Eye
9. Hey Mother
10. Blue Jeans Eyes (Bonus Track)
11. The River is Rollin’

Stardust is:

Adam Stewart – Vocals, rhythm guitar
Ben Martin – Bass
Dave Legrand – Keyboards
Facey – Lead Guitar
Tim Keeley – Drums