Few bands currently operating within rock possess quite the same combination of glam-rock swagger, hard-rock grit and alternative edge as Starbenders. Having spent recent years refining a sound that draws inspiration from rock’s past whilst remaining firmly rooted in the present, the Atlanta quartet arrived at Newcastle’s Think Tank as part of The Beast Goes On tour, bringing with them a catalogue that continues to grow in both confidence and character.
Following support performances from The Howling and Gwailo, Starbenders opened with “Blood Moon”, immediately establishing the tone for the evening – loud, gritty and undeniably catchy. Rather than relying on elaborate theatrics or arena-sized production, the band allowed the songs themselves to take centre stage, creating a performance that felt authentic, natural and entirely in keeping with their identity.
The early pairing of “If You Need It” and “The Beast Goes On” demonstrated the band’s ability to combine infectious melodies with driving hard-rock energy, whilst Tokyo showcased another side of their songwriting, blending alternative influences with the glamour and attitude that have become synonymous with the Starbenders name.
One of the evening’s greatest strengths was the way material from across the band’s catalogue sat together so comfortably. “Summon My Heart” and “We’re Not OK” highlighted Starbenders’ talent for crafting memorable choruses, whilst “Seven White Horses”, “Cover Me”, and “Chantilly Boy” offered further evidence of a band unafraid to explore different textures and moods within their music. Despite the variety on display, everything felt unmistakably Starbenders.
Interspersed throughout the set were extended instrumental passages that allowed the music room to breathe and added an extra layer of spontaneity to the performance. These moments never felt excessive, instead serving as a reminder that Starbenders are far more than a collection of well-crafted songs. There remains a rawness to their live sound that gives the performance personality and ensures each show feels like its own unique, artistic and, at times, ethereal experience.
“Cold Silver” proved particularly effective within the intimate surroundings of the Think Tank. At the same time, “Sex and Nothing Ever Changes” ensured the momentum remained firmly intact as the evening moved towards its conclusion. By the time Saturday brought proceedings to a close, Starbenders had delivered a set that successfully balanced newer material with established favourites whilst showcasing the breadth of their increasingly impressive, genre-bending catalogue.
The Think Tank’s close quarters provided an ideal environment for experiencing Starbenders. Stripped of distractions, the focus remained firmly on the music itself; music that continues to blend the flamboyance of glam rock, the punch of hard rock and the attitude of punk with memorable melodies and infectious hooks, resulting in something uniquely their own.
In an era when many bands chase trends, Starbenders continue to stand apart by remaining unapologetically themselves. Newcastle’s Think Tank may have represented just one stop on The Beast Goes On tour, but it provided a compelling showcase of a band continuing to evolve whilst remaining true to the qualities that first set them apart. Combining style, substance and an ever-expanding catalogue of memorable songs, Starbenders delivered a performance that served as a timely reminder of why they remain one of the most distinctive and intriguing acts operating in the current rock scene.
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