REVIEW: Starbender – ‘Social Engineering’

Chicago’s Starbender takes flight with ‘Social Engineering’, a politically charged and sonically expansive album that fuses the raw grit of 90s grunge with the sweeping atmospherics of space-rock. Built on a foundation of searing guitar riffs, ethereal melodies, and anthemic choruses, the record is a fearless dive into the chaos of modern society; unpacking media corruption, political deceit, and the unchecked power of the billionaire class, all while searching for a sense of collective humanity.

The album channels the spirit of brit rock and alternative legends, merging the emotive intensity of Smashing Pumpkins and Nirvana with the grand, cinematic scope of Muse and Pink Floyd, throwing in just a dash of driven psych-rock in there for good measure as well. The result is a volatile mix with equal parts rebellion and introspection, defiance and transcendence, launching us into a sonic odyssey that is as much about self-discovery as it is about resistance.

At its core, ‘Social Engineering’ is both an awakening and a rallying cry for change. The album’s tracklist ebbs and flows, alternating between brooding, atmospheric soundscapes and an explosive rock anthem that refuse to be ignored. Each song stands confidently on its own while contributing to a larger, interconnected journey, creating a ride that is haunting yet beautiful, and brimming with unfiltered energy at every opportunity.

Starbender prove that rock music, when wielded with passion and purpose, still has the power to shake the foundations of the world. ‘Social Engineering’ stands as yet another electrified call to arms in their ever-evolving catalogue to date. If the sound of brit rock colliding with alternative grunge in deep space sounds like your kind of rebellion, then this album is the key to unlocking the cosmos.