Review Summary: The idea of a war-torn post-apocalyptic world never gets old.
Aviators isn’t your average indie alternative, orchestral and EDM musician. Although emerging from humble beginnings as a YouTube content creator, Aviators has released many interesting songs, emotional songs, or songs that just flat-out rock. From synth-heavy video game inspired songs to powerful, guitar shredding collaborations with metal artists to energetic bass-booming songs with electronic music producers and the like, it’s almost as if there is nothing Aviators can’t do. Much of his flexibilities as an artist are present in the 2016 release “Stargazers.”
A follow-up to the 2014 album “Building Better Worlds”, the 90’s synthwave and rock inspired “Stargazers” is a concept album revolving around war, greed, destruction, and the overall struggle of human survival. As I feel is the case for most concept albums, the stories, music and lyrics are ultimately left to the listener’s imagination and understanding. Therefore, for the most part, listeners will react to the dark, apocalyptic themes in different ways.
The album’s content can be mostly split into two categories: dark, slow, depressing tracks and upbeat, energetic, empowering tracks. The album intro, “Stargazers”, is somewhat a mixture of the two, featuring piano and haunting synths that eerily fade in-and-out of existence as they please. Consider this track a warning, if you will, that an emotional ride is just around the corner.
The second track, “Oblivion”, truly showcases what this album has to offer. So retro that it hurts, the politically-focused lyrics set the stage for the tragic twists and turns of “Stargazers.” Easily one of the best songs on the album, as it holds true to everything the LP stands for. The album continues on with breath-strainingly dark and depressing tracks such as the establishment-loathing “Welcome to Paradise” and the tragically romantic “Apocalypse State of Mind.” It’s these slower tracks that really make the high points of this album stand out.
The rock-influenced “Immortal” promises to never let up on its eternally lasting message of standing your ground in the face of disaster. The electronic sounds mix perfectly with the powerful drumming as some of the best lyrical content the album has to offer is being presented. Another highlight for sure. Also worth mentioning are the uplifting tracks “Game Over” and the brave, cheerful “Who’s Going to Stop Me Now?” These feel-good, almost playful songs truly bring the album to life and show that in times of hardship, hope and courage shine and triumph over all. Also worth mentioning is the rock ballad featuring musician Tarby, titled “Acid Rain.” Tarby is an interesting artist in his own right, and brings much to the song with guitar and singing talent. This is also one of the best the album has to offer.
However, the slower tracks can be overbearing at times, namely the angsty “Chaos Theory” and the eight minute closing track “Remains.” But this isn’t always the case, in my opinion. For example, I believe the ironic “Requiem for the Hunter” doesn’t overstay its welcome and showcases sincere lament that listeners can relate and sympathize with. This, however, will differ depending on who’s listening.
Overall, “Stargazers” is one of Aviator’s best works yet, and has many tracks that are worth listening to several times. Though it’s not perfect, it’s still a great concept album that is both a blast from the past, and a warning of what’s to come in the near future.
“Where will you be when the walls give way?”
Recommended tracks:
Stargazers
Oblivion
Apocalypse State of Mind
Immortal
Requiem for the Hunter
Might want to skip:
Chaos Theory
Wolves
Meet You At The End
