Starrify is the solo project of an alternative artist by the name of Mark Palmer. On Goodbye California, Palmer’s latest eight-track project, listeners are treated to a showcase of this musician’s sheer talent as a multi-instrumentalist. On “Ghost of John,” it’s clear that Palmer is a master of all trades, not a jack. His vocal-work, for starters, is absolutely breathtaking. I can’t remember the last time I reviewed an artist with such a beautiful singing style. There’s such a fragility to his vocal timbre. Combined with the tender guitar-playing, this introduction to the album is hauntingly-stunning. I’m blown away by the fact that Palmer plays every instrument other than the drums.
“Secret Plans” is a strong second track too. This song manages to cover so much ground over the course of five minutes. More tender vocals and finger-picking, of course. It’s the strings that truly captivate me on this track, however. They swell in such an utterly heart-breaking way. In much the same way as Palmer’s vocals, there is a rising and falling quality to them which really evokes nostalgic, sentimental feelings. And the melody of this track, additionally, has such a somber, melancholic beauty to it. One of the loveliest songs on the record is “I Hear Horses.” Palmer has showcased the strength of his angelic voice, but he also demonstrates the softness of it on this song. There are some spectacularly subtle moments. The quiet moments really demand the listener’s attention, and I love that. With a song that boasts as much intricacy and detail as this one, every listener should devote their entire attention to it. There are so many layers to be soaked up. Guitar is at the heart of every Starrify track, of course, but it’s the background strings and synths that always complete the songs for me. The title track closes the album perfectly. “Goodbye California” is exactly what you’d expect from the title. It’s bittersweet. The acoustic guitar melody is so emotive. Palmer utilizes a chord progression that feels simultaneously happy and sad. The muted drumming and delicate vocals create such a beautiful, relaxing vibe. It sends off the album on a wave of tranquility
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May 2024
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