WildeStarr "Arrival" out worldwide TODAY!

[WildeStarr]

[Metal-Temple.com] WildeStarr - Arrival (Review) (Greece)

Reviewed by Grigoris on 2009/09/1



WildeStarr "Arrival" CD Review

Furnace Maximus Records

1. Rose In The Dark
2. Arrival
3. Touching God
4. Rise
5. Down Of The Sun
6. In This World
7. Generation Next
8. Nevermore
9. Voice In The Silence
10. The Chain

London Wilde - Vocals, Keyboards
Dave Starr - Guitar, Bass
Jim Hawthorne - Drums

I was in contact with Dave Starr some months ago, then being told the recordings for his WILDESTARR project were completed and the first promo copies for Media reviews would soon be on the way. Having not a single clue what his new mission would be about, it was an exciting moment to receive a fabulous promotional kit with full Press info and liner notes in order to have a generous input prior to listening to (what proved to be) this excellent album.

Dave Starr’s name has been largely associated with the ’classic’ discography of American renowned metallers VICIOUS RUMORS. Holding the bass duties during the band’s 1985-1992 years, then briefly joining VR again for the "Warball" (2006) sessions, Dave has also been credited for working with guitar extraordinaire David Chastain in his notable "In An Outrage" (2004) CD while his was a member of the LAAZ ROCKIT team back in 1983 (the Press leaf states he contributed to the Oakland, CA thrashers’ early "Prelude To Death" demo EP - it’s impressive how educational a detailed info sheet can be!). In WILDSTARR now, Dave decides to record both the guitar and bass tracks while invites a mystery lady called London Wilde to handle the vocals and keys sections, with drummer Jim Hawthorne filling the WILDESTARR lineup.

London Wilde was initially invited to supply the keyboards work for the songs Dave had already written, after they had met in David Chastain’s sessions. Impressed by her vocal abilities, it seems that Dave Starr had no other choice - or will - but to offer her the job. And - to cut along story short - London’s singing is impressive. She manages to combine the Heavy/Power Metal dynamics (many males shall bow to her throat when she decides to reach the ’sky’ notes) with some more emotional/ethereal vibe, while pieces of more sci-fi Rock singing are not out of the question, too. The balance proves to be fine; you know ho risky is to merge different patterns with today’s ’harsh’ requirements.

The music written by WILDESTARR is set on relative layers. Boasting massive classic American Metal guitars - both in the rhythm and leads fields - and some bombarding rhythm section, "Arrival"’s songlist also features a portion of more atmospheric music, surely originating from the keyboards slices but also being an adequate result of Starr’s view regarding enough lead parts and the production/sound. Do not rely on what Press info texts are declaring in general, but I guess this time the announcement is quite to the point, stating "Arrival" sounds like a mix of VICIOUS RUMORS, SAVATAGE, JUDAS PRIEST and EVANESCENCE. Even if the latter band’s quote is quite controversial for the average metalhead’s likes, it is essential to be stated that it is brought up just to underline the ambiance included in "Arrival"’s songs and not to recall any of the Little Rock, AR rockers’ songwriting blueprints (except from the vocals, maybe). Not to forget, I’d add HELSTAR, CRIMSON GLORY, LEATHERWOLF and CHASTAIN as some further bands brought to mind while listening to this album.

I’d like the production to be even more ’professional’, even if it surely is OK now. Else, the diversity in the themes and tempos, the mix of the old and the new in WILDESTARR’s musicianship and the hard work obviously done in the melodies and songparts result to a more than good album. Dave Starr has come up with an excellent CD and I really hope this is not all we’ll ever gonna here from WILDESTARR; really hope. You can order "Arrival" - comes with a 16-page glossy booklet - directly from the band and you’re kindly advised to do so.

Rating/Score: 4 out of 5

WildeStarr - Official Band Site
WildeStarr on MySpace Music - Free Streaming MP3s, Pictures & Music Downloads

[WildeStarr]

Vinnie Moore says...

UFO guitarist Vinnie Moore says this about WildeStarr "Arrival"....

"Dave and London open up a big ole can of melodic heavy metal whoop ass on this one. At times the tunes remind me a little of Dream Theater. Dave has made a great transition from bassist to guitarist. This CD definitely rocks heavily!"

Vinnie Moore's Official Web Site

[WildeStarr]

WildeStarr "Live" on the air with Heavy-Metal-Mayhem RADIO!

Dave Starr & London Wilde Of WildeStarr
Date/Time: Sunday September 27, 2009
Time: 6:00pm - 8:00pm EST

Guest Dave Starr London Wilde Of Wildestarr 9/27/2009 - Heavy Metal Mayhem on Blog Talk Radio

MySpace - Heavy Metal Mayhem Radio Show - 41 - Male - New York - myspace.com/heavymetalmayhemradioshow

[WildeStarr]

TODAY!

WildeStarr "Live" on the air TODAY with Heavy-Metal-Mayhem RADIO!

Dave Starr & London Wilde Of WildeStarr
Date/Time: Sunday September 27, 2009
Time: 6:00pm - 8:00pm EST





Guest Dave Starr London Wilde Of Wildestarr 9/27/2009 - Heavy Metal Mayhem on Blog Talk Radio

MySpace - Heavy Metal Mayhem Radio Show - 41 - Male - New York - myspace.com/heavymetalmayhemradioshow

[Texas07R8]

Man, you're livin' the dream. Good for you, I'm positive you've made Les Paul proud!

Congrats and all the best, maybe I can see you when you get to Dallas.

[WildeStarr]

Originally Posted by Texas07R8

Man, you're livin' the dream. Good for you, I'm positive you've made Les Paul proud!

Congrats and all the best, maybe I can see you when you get to Dallas.

Thanks Texas07R8, thats very cool of you! I have been doin this a long time... 27 years or so, but things these days are the best ever for me now with the release of the new CD.


New follow up review at Spirit of Metal Webzine (France)

Arrival : Wilde Starr - Spirit of Metal Webzine (en)

Very shiny traditional metal is on offer here that has a really positive vibe. The riffs are quite prominent in their deliverance of Judas Priest-like rhythms to the greatest extent possible. The entertaining displays are quite enthralling and manage to capture your attention to a decent extent. They show a band that has fun performing their material and injects Arrival with a load of exuberance. For this reason alone I find them better than the thrash band Laaz Rockit of which Dave Starr has also been a part of, there’s simply more excitement to be found.

Does the band ever delve into the cheesiness power metal is capable of displaying? I don’t think so as the band stays in a defined sound of their own creation quite effectively. The work has enough momentum to constantly push it forward so it remains interesting and enjoyable. The best track here is possibly “Down of the Sun” in its own unique fashion although there is plenty to like on the album. The comparisons to traditional bands like Judas Priest suffices well to display how they are able to forge metallic tendencies of the truest nature to the world.

It seems that the band have united enough to find a spark that ignites inside them and carried this forth to the metal world for all to see. They thus remain a compelling entity and one that should be checked by almost anybody. With a few more interesting twists and turns their sound could turn out to be even better, so hopefully this is only a taste of possible things to come in the future. A good effort with lots of melody and solid vocals and performances abound.

Victim_of_Deception, le Monday 28 September 2009

[WildeStarr]

WildeStarr "Arrival" review at: FEMME METAL - Home

WildeStarr - "Arrival" (2009)

Label : Furnace Maximus Records

Review By Tony Cannella

WildeStarr is the new project formed by ex-Vicious Rumors bassist Dave Starr and vocalist London Wilde. The duo have hooked up to unleash their debut CD titled "Arrival" and it is 10-songs and over 50-minutes worth of powerhouse metal that really delivers the goods in every way imaginable.

The intricately crafted 7-minute opening number "Rose In The Dark" kicks things off and immediately the listener is drawn into a world of memorable guitar riffs and the powerful vocal style of London Wilde, this really is a great opening number and one the best "Arrival" has to offer. The next track "Arrival" slows down the tempo a bit, but it is just as heavy as the previous track and no less intense and very dramatic sounding. "Touching God" continue the high quality of the CD. "Rise" is one the heaviest songs that this CD has to offer with London Wilde really delivering a Rob Halford like screaming vocals, but also trying out some other vocal ranges throughout the course of the track. Other highlights include: "Down Of The Sun", "Nevermore", "Generation Next" and "Voice In The Silence". The vocals of London Wilde are really, really impressive as she really shines throughout the 10-songs on this disc and has to be considered one of the best new vocalist to emerge on the scene in quite some time.

WildeStarr should appeal to fans of intense, guitar driven metal and the forceful vocals of London Wilde really help to solidify the quality of the music. With so few guitar heroes being produced these days, WildeStarr should come as a revelation to fans of 'guitar metal', or if you just like good songs - they've got that covered too. WildeStarr have arrived.

Rating : 80/100

FEMME METAL - WildeStarr Arrival Rev

[WildeStarr]

WildeStarr "Arrival" CD review at: .: FuryRocks :.

(Netherlands)


Published: 30 September 2009
WildeStarr
Arrival
Furnace Maximum Records
Genre: Extreme Melodic Metal

Dave Starr, mostly known for his bass work with Vicious Rumors, now comes with his first solo album, made in cooperation with London Wilde under the name WildeStarr. London takes up the vocal and keyboard duties, while Dave does all the guitars and bass and the drums are done by Jim Hawthorne.

The album opens strong with Rose In The Dark. The guitar sound very catchy and contains a lot of energy. The vocals are really strong and explode from the speakers. Wilde has a great and diverse voice and shows that. The whole song is very good under control and in balance. In the title song Arrival the vocals take the lead and while the guitar play is great it are still the vocals who strike the most.

Then Touching God arises, but that song is not a killer, although the guitar parts sound a bit catchy and the voice is still great. It is something extra that misses a sort of connection. Rise restores the honor of the duo and even contains Rob Halford kind of screams. Down Of The Sun is a song with a lot of emotion, that can be heard in the voice as well as in the music. It flows as great powerful waves around the room, splashing against the walls and leaving a soul that is touch by the magic of the music.

The songs that follow are all heavy with a great feel in the voice except for Nevermore which is a power ballad. The vocals follow musical lines that show a lot of emotion. The guitar extends the emotional lines, especially with the solo, that speaks out.

This is pure metal with no false elements touched to it. It is the rawest form, maybe sugarcoated with great musical solos and emotion, but it really is heavy metal. For people who thought it would be power metal, because of the ‘keyboard duties’, don’t be fooled. The keyboard is only there for the atmosphere, but the overall dominating things are the guitar and the voice of London, supported by some great drum work.

The album is finished epically with the song The Chain. The album Arrival will be a great addition to every collection of metal out there. It is classic, it has style and contains all the ingredients metal should have. WildeStarr is now the brightest star out there and you can catch it!

Review by: Tim van de Weyden
Score: 8.8 out of 10

.: FuryRocks :: recentie :: WildeStarr__Arrival_113504 :.



WildeStarr - Official Band Site

[WildeStarr]

WildeStarr "Arrival" CD Review by Cristiano "Frank" Gonçalves

:::... Join the ALL THE BANGERS Army! ...::: (Brazil)

(google translation)

I've lost count of how many albums I heard, but some were unforgettable, it will cause a great feeling of satisfaction, staying in memory on first contact. Of these, a highlight of Crimson Glory (Transcendence "), a Bed (" Ball Of The Damned ") and now this, the Wilde Starr.
I had never spoken in the band and had no contact with the earlier work of London Wilde and Dave Starr (Chastain and Vicious Rumors), but listen to "Arrival" was a pleasant surprise.
The album features elements of traditional heavy metal, but with bits of melodic and hard rock. The instrumental is excellent, especially the guitar lines, riffs and exciting solos nice. But the highlight and certainly the difference in the band are the vocals, which range from low to high with ease, adapting the available resources to the needs of each ticket and showing a unique timbre, which is on my wish list. The versatility of London Wilde is more than proven in "Rise" and "In This World", tracks that I consider as a highlight.
No doubt, "Arrival" is one of the best albums of the year and the only question that arises is: when I left the next album?



www.wildestarr.com

[WildeStarr]

CD & DVD REVIEWS 2009 (Netherlands)

WILDESTARR – Arrival (CD)

Style: Female Fronted US Power Metal

Review by: Mario van Dooren

WildeStarr was formed in 2003 by original Vicious Rumors bass player Dave Starr, and studio vocalist London Wilde. With Starr handling Guitars and Bass, and Wilde on vocals, As a Duo, the band released their first Demo single in 2007 called "Generation Next". Joined by drummer Jim Hawthorne in 2008, the band began recording their Debut full length album, "Arrival" on Furnace Maximus Records, released August 1, 2009.
Well here it is! The band contacted me by MySpace and when I checked out the song on their MySpace I was blown away!! Is this a woman that is singing?? Never heard a women singing high-pichting vocals this way!! Unbelievable!
After a short German-spoken intro the album starts with 'Rose in the Dark' which is an uptempo song and already shows that this is my kind of metal!! It suits me that this band is only a trio; Dave Starr is doing all guitars, bass & backing vocals; London Wilde is doing vocals & keyboards and as drummer they recruited Jim Hawthorne. The next song is the single of this album and the only song on their MySpace "Arrival"; it starts with an incredible heavy riff and reminds me to a band like Nevermore. 'Touching God" is a midtempo with again incredible vocals & musicianship! "Rise" is one of my favorite songs because of the extreme good high pitchers!! Wooww, this woman can scream; a lot of male colleagues can pack their bags and start with singing lessons! Incredible!! "Down of the Sun" is again a classic one with excellent vocals an London Wilde proves here that she can not only do the high pitching vocals superb; she has a very wide vocal range. "In this World" is also a good song in the vein of the other midtempo songs on this album. "Generation Next" opens again with an incredible scream and steals my metalheart again! One of my favorite songs! "Nevermore" starts as a ballad but soon changes into a semi-ballad. Good song and also good for the variation! "Voice in the Silence" & "The Chain" are the 2 last songs on this album and are both in the style of the other songs.
This is the best album I heard in months and it will end up high in my 2009 poll; that's for sure! Check this marvellous album/band out!!!! I've warned you!!!

score: 96/100

[WildeStarr]

Dave & London on Infernal Rock Radio This Weekend!

Infernal Rock Radio



Infernal Rock Radio

10-18-09 4 PM Eastern!

[WildeStarr]

New interview with Dave & London at: [Metal-Temple.com]

[Metal-Temple.com] Dave Starr, London Wilde (Interview)

WildeStarr - Official Band Site

[WildeStarr]

WildeStarr "Arrival" CD Review at Infernal Masquerade

http://www.infernalmasquerade.com/?q...3-arrival-2009

Review by: Juan M. Banda

Rating: 89/100


WildeStarr hails from Alameda, California, and the band’s name is taken from the two members last names: London Wilde (vocals and keyboards) and Dave Starr (Guitars and Bass). The band’s sound can easily be compared to Doro with some hints of After Forever.

Featuring over 55 minutes of music “Arrival” is one of the most effective releases I’ve heard this year, and I mean effective in a sense that no minute is wasted in establishing the band into one of the best of the genre. All songs are very well written and are diverse enough to not get bored, but feature elements in common giving the band their signature sound.

London Wilde’s vocals are pretty solid and can easily be compared to any other female vocalist singing in the Power/Hevy metal genres, sometimes she can even be compared to Doro. Her keyboard arrangements are top notch and never get overwhelming or over done, having this perfect balance, helps the overall Power Metal feel without getting into the Gothic Metal realm.

The guitars are probably my favorite thing of this album since they are very well written and they never go into ‘super virtuoso mode’, something that ruins many Power Metal releases for me. The solos are very well arranged and long enough to be enjoyable, but not get in the way of enjoying the rest of the music. Dave Starr has experience playing bass guitar for Vicious Rumors, Lääz Rockit and Chastain, and you can clearly see this experience transferred into the music.

Drums in this album are provided by Jim Hawthorne, and even though he is not an official band member, he fits perfectly to the band’s sound, keeping everything together with a tight drum track.

Overal “Arrival” is a very solid first full length and given the quality of these musicians I can only expect future albums to get better, so go ahead and order this album from the band’s website, you will not be disappointed. This album is a must for all Melodic / Symphonic Power Metal fan.

WildeStarr - Official Band Site

[WildeStarr]

Arrival - Wilde Starr - Reviews de CDs (Brazil)

WildeStarr "Arrival" review by: Ben Ami Scopinho 10-14-09


"But what is it ?!?!"... That was my reaction to the first chords of "Arrival", the debut of the U.S. project WildeStarr. The reader who followed the Heavy Metal scene of the second half of the 80 may recall some discs where sound is highlighted by the fact that the band with musicians from righteous, even considered advanced for its time. Cacophony, Vicious Rumors, Wild Dogs CJSS or may not have broken out on a commercial, but names are remembered even to this day.

Even the story of WildeStarr is connected to one of those bands mentioned above. Dave Starr was the bassist of the period considered as the most creative Vicious Rumous. Assuming the guitar with praise, its partnership with the beautiful singer studio London Wilde began in 2003 and resulted in the demo "Generation Next" (07), and quickly spread the name of the duo over the Internet. Now, with drummer Jim Hawthorne, playing on the debut disc.

In many ways, "Arrival" has a style that refers to the sound of heavy metal and classical virtuoso, typically European. But do not think that the repertoire is a collage of clichés or sounding dated. Clinging to the roots is an important feature here, but the approach is of a very intelligent, nuanced progressive and discrete keyboards injecting more obscure tunes, with the end result something truly contemporary.

Besides these points as positive, Wilde's voice is impressive, strong and clear as the style calls. Working with emotion and influences such as Rob Halford (Judas Priest) and Geoff Tate (Queensryche), the girl cries a lot and even sings his high tones in "Rise".... it's destructive, breathtaking even!

With the right variety of rhythms and an incredible blending of instruments, this music has such power that this disc has already been considered by many as the best debut of 2009. And this scribe fully agrees ...

Score 9 out of 10

Contact:
WildeStarr - Official Band Site
WildeStarr on MySpace Music - Free Streaming MP3s, Pictures & Music Downloads

[ozone]

Congrats bro. I glad to see all your hard work is paying off.
Great job on the music.

[WildeStarr]

WildeStarr at BNR Metal!


Bio/Review by: Brian Russ

Dave Starr is known in metal circles as a longtime bassist for Vicious Rumors. Though he left that band long ago (making a brief re-appearance in 2006 on the Warball album), he's had the metal itch for some time, and finally decided to do his own thing, tackling both guitars and bass. He met one London Wilde in the studio, and (as the story goes) initially meant to recruit her as a keyboardist only, but wisely changed his mind once he heard her voice. At that point, WildeStarr the name and band kicked into high gear, finally resulting in Arrival in 2009. Starr's old band is a logical initial comparison when describing WildeStarr's sound -- this is classic traditional metal, not particularly modern nor a dated retro sound either, accessible without pandering to commercialism. And, indeed, London Wilde is a find, possessing a soaring, powerful voice (press releases point to Evanescence as a soundalike, which might be true from a vocal standpoint, though that band's style differs greatly from what's on display here). Starr himself proves to be a fine guitarist, steady without being overindulgent. Clearly his experience in metal works to the band's advantage, as there is a maturity on display that isn't often found on debut albums. Classy, heavy, melodic, powerful hard rock/metal -- that's Arrival in a nutshell.

The BNR Metal Pages

[WildeStarr]

Originally Posted by ozone

Congrats bro. I glad to see all your hard work is paying off.
Great job on the music.

Thanks Ozone!

[WildeStarr]

WildeStarr "Arrival" CD Review at: Metal Music Reviews, Interviews, Tour Dates, News | Metal Asylum

Metal Asylum


WildeStarr- Arrival
Label: Furnace Maximus
Format: CD
Released: 2009
Reviewed By: Mark Gromen
Rating: 8/10


The brainchild of former Vicious Rumors bassist Dave Starr (now converted to six-string, although he handles all guitars on this debut), coupled with female vocalist London Wilde. The highest compliment I can pay Wilde is that much of the time she’s indistinguishable from high-end male vocalists, husky voiced when not scaling into the stratosphere. No cooing or acting demur within these ten tracks (Starr adds the occasional backing voice).


Musically, especially the guitar tones, this recalls classic Crimson Glory (apart from ‘In This World’, which would yield $4500 towards a new car from the government’s recently concluded incentive program): lively guitar interplay, if not downright speedy, accented by piercing high vox. The opening ‘Rose In The Dark’ rips, as does ‘Rise’ and ‘Generation Next’. Things get a little grittier on ‘Touching God’, while ‘Nevermore’ is a slower, ballad type construct, introduced with acoustic guitar, but by its conclusion, Wilde is living up to her surname.

The last third fails to live up to the standards set early on, but it’s a little more “experimental” than its surroundings. Hopefully they can progress beyond being a studio act, as I’d be interested to hear this stuff live!

WildeStarr - Official Band Site

[WildeStarr]

WildeStarr "Arrival" Furnace Maximus Records

4 out of 5 stars

Review by Jase:

A new band recently came my way by ex Vicious Rumors bassist Dave Starr, Dave was with the band from 1984 through the 'Live in Tokyo' album in 93. Since then Dave helped out David Chastain, a underrated guitarist with a history of powerful hard hitting Power Metal albums, firstly with CJSS before calling the band 'Chastain'. Dave recorded the album 'In An Outrage' with Chastain in 2004 after which he decided to put together this outfit 'Wilde Starr' with the very talented singer London Wilde, a powerful female singer who comes close to the power of a female version of Rob Halford and even the likes of Geoff Tate and maybe even Dio. But there is no doubt that London is one hell of a awesome powerful singer who would give any male vocalist a run for their money. London had been working in the studio as a recording engineer and a song writer and in 2004 Dave met London to discuss writing together and to create a new band. Now Dave his back and according to him this is his best work he has done, yeah I'm pretty impressived with that Dave and London have come up with. Dave also now handles the guitar and well as the bass, London handles the vocals and keyboards and drummer Jim Hawthorne is added to the CD. Saying that the drums to sound a little bit like a drum machine, which is a shame, but other than that this is a good album. It manages to capture a mixture of Power Metal, with Gothic elements and a atmospheric feel too. This album contains 10 trax of pure metal, with some fine powerful vocals, not for the faint hearted, no Nightwish, Epica style here. The album was produced by both Dave & London, whom have done a good job and with the music been heavy but melodic makes all the difference. The music reminds me of Crimson Glory, Chastain, and maybe hints of bands like Nevermore. This is a great debut and I hope more will follow soon. Check out London's vocals on the song 'Rise', she's like a possessed Rob Halford. Good debut I suggest you check out. Check the following songs out: Rise, Rose In The Dark, Arrival, In This World, Generation Next, Nevermore, Voice In The Silence, The Chain. For more info please check out the price and how to grab a copy of this CD at: WildeStarr - Official Band Site . Metal is on it's way back!!

Pounding Metal

[WildeStarr]

WildeStarr "Arrival" CD Review

www.silentscreamzine.com

Review by: Fulvio Adile (Italy)

(crappy translation via google)

An anonymous packaging much I had a rather confused about the real artists of this caliber WildeStarr, a group founded by Dave Starr, best known as the bassist of Vicious Rumors (the authors of the beautiful "Digital Dictator"), and London Wilde, gifted singer and keyboardist U.S. note in the music business for his work behind the scenes. The opener "Rose In The Dark" made me think that they were looking for a job array largely European, half way between the power and the neoclassical metal, but in reality there is a lot more meat on the fire, and the hard, in short, is very consistent but also very varied. The title track is a mid-tempo pure American power, well orchestrated, with the beautiful "Touching God" plunges us into territory far more obscure and allusive (a song Manowar run with cleaner neoclassical), "Rise" and "Generation Next" licking the areas of power-thrash square and tetrahedron, "Down Of The Sun" is a cross between a mid tempo power ballad of Judas Priest, "Nevermore" was the refrain most insightful whole lot; "The Chain" an exuberant ride entrusted to double case. Perhaps the production is not exactly the height and a little 'cold, but this little handicap is perfectly balanced vocal sound interpretation, technique and very good sensitivity of London, a truly exceptional frontgirl (but where they have kept hidden?). Perhaps it is not the best I have felt hard in 2009, but the real revelation WildeStarr are still heavy metal of the year.

Fulvio Adile

score: 7.5 out of 10


::: Silent Scream Webzine ::: WildeStarr - Arrival

www.wildestarr.com

[terence_tez]

congratulations!!!really tired now but i promise to listen to it all when i'm free.

[WildeStarr]

HEAVY magazine from Germany. (print)
Score: 10 out of 12



Translation: German » English

Ex –Vicious Rumors Bassist Dave Starr( has brought in all Bass,-& Guitar tracks here)and vocalist London Wilde ( vocals and keyboard) publish nowadays their debut.
Supported by drummer Jim Hawthorne an awesome piece of metal music has been created.
A mixture of Vicious Rumors ( of course), Chastain, Evanescence and Judas Priest.
Opened with the German (!)words: „Es lebe die Freiheit“, you get reminded on Rose In the Dark. Followed by the a bit morbid title track, to the forceful“ In this World“, up to the fast „Rise“ pushing metal is offered with a powerful female vocalist and massive guitar reefs.
A very good guitarplay is presented byDave Starr and stretches through all ten songs like a red fibre.
Although the track Voice in the Silence which is a tribute to the passed Vicious Rumors vocalist Carl Albert, penetrates the ear canals and remains there after having been heard a few times.
It is not easy for me to point out single tracks, cause everything sounds like all of a piece, covers the entire bandwidth, and means concentrated feed for each melodic metal fan, as well as the above mentioned bands.
Here one can take hold without concern! Check also: www.wildestarr.com

Kuno „Bockwurst“ Bognár Heavy Magazine (Germany)

[WildeStarr]

WildeStarr "Arrival" CD Review at:

Ice Vajal - Music Land - Metal World

(Furnace Maximus Records - 2009)

Review by: Gisela Schmitz (translation: Claudia Ehrhardt)

Ice Vajal - Music Land - Metal World :: Wilde Starr


Guitarist Dave Starr was part of quite a few bands which are highly regarded, so he was part of Lääz Rockit, Chastain and Vicious Rumors. Now he as a new band - Wilde Starr. Together with singer London Wilde and drummer Jim Hawthorne he recorded this album which is called Arrival. First of all, fans of power metal will dig it! The album kicks off with Rose In The Dark which opens up with a German intro. After this excellent metal tune they easy off a bit, coz the title track is a partly mid-paced female-fronted metal track. I confess that I find female vocals á la Nightwish very boring, but this is brilliant. London rocks! And it's pure fun to listen. They add some bombastic sounds and so it needs only 2 songs to realize that Wilde Starr are special! A dark edge offers Touching God. The song has a calm atmosphere which fits very well, but also a few faster passages. London adjusts to the speed and so this song works well and is very interesting. They speed up for Rise, a power metal song with cool riffs and with expressive vocals which vary from sweet and lovely to angered ones. The opening of Down Of The Sun seems to be a ballad, but the song has some speed changes to offer and so it's mainly mid-paced. The gentle tempi changes give the song a melancholy edge and so it's a sonic roller coaster ride. They storm off with In This World, a song with cool riffs and great harmonies. And even some playfulness shows through, but it's still a power metal track! The fast Generation Next is more complex and full of great riffing - and so becomes one of the highlights of this album. They calm down a bit for Nevermore, a mid-tempo tune which becomes a real ear catcher! Doomy sounds you get with Voice In The Silence. A bit dragging, but with a great hook as well as rock parts this one grows on you. A power metal song with rough edges - just the way it should be. My resume, a great album with crisp power metal tunes and so I recommend this one to all fans of power metal. Give it a try!

Score: 9 out of 10



WildeStarr - Official Band Site
WildeStarr on MySpace Music - Free Streaming MP3s, Pictures & Music Downloads

[WildeStarr]

WildeStarr "Arrival" CD Review

Wilde Starr - Arrival (Brazil)

Review by: Marcelo Leite

(translation via google)

No doubt we are facing one of the best albums of the last years made in the style.

This band is led by Dave Starr who became famous for participating as the best bassist of the legendary stage Vicious Rumors. Here Dave shows off his knowledge on the guitar, and how he plays! throughout the album presents an avalanche of great riffs and solos full of feeling.

London Wilde is the person behind the voice is the female version of Rob Halford, who besides singing in the show is also an excellent keyboardist.

Jim Hawthorn completes the cast with the correct battery and maintains the level of the album.

Presentations, we will be some highlights of Arrival. From the first track "Rose in the dark," we are involved in a gloom that lasts for all tracks, this is because the lines of keyboards made by Wilde. "Arrival" is another highlight his wonderful riff and the voice of Wilde that comes close to perfection, to get an idea, often confuse the vocal lines of Miss with guitar solos. Other highlights are to "Rise" aggressive and impressive, "In this world" and "The Chain".

Arrival has a production sound and graphics that are perfect for the style.

This one is a traditional metal album with influences of hard rock and prog, with musicians of the highest level, which unfortunately has not yet been launched in the country, then seals who want to start something of quality in brazilian lands, Wilde Starr is the best option today.

London Wilde - vocals, keyboards
Dave Starr - guitar, bass
Jim Hawthorne - drums

http://www.wildestarr.com

[AlvisX]

Hey Dave
congrats on all the great reviews
Keep on doin it!

[WildeStarr]

Originally Posted by AlvisX

Hey Dave
congrats on all the great reviews
Keep on doin it!

THANKS!

[WildeStarr]

WILDE STARR – ARRIVAL - Furnace Maximus Records –

Review by: EDUARDO DE SOUZA BONADIA

STRYKE - Virtual Metal Magazine & Promotion (Brazil)

(translation via google)

This amazing new band comes from sunny California (USA) exactly in a place called Alameda and its name comes from the merging of the last names of its main components, the lead singer (also songwriter and responsible for keyboards) London Wilde and bassist / guitarist Dave Starr, who along with drummer Jim Hawthorne, recorded this superb debut feature.

Dave Starr was (or is it?) VICIOUS RUMORS bassist for twenty-two years participating throughout the heyday of the quintet when he was with the late singer and superb Carl Albert came to the present day and also recorded including the last studio work of the guys The great "Warball", he joined a short time in Laaz Rockit and played with DAVID T CHASTAIN, so it's no Newbie stuck to the beast, but a serious and experienced musician who knows where you are stepping, London Wilde, where have you been for so long?? The singer has an amazing talent and a wonderful voice that avoids the cliche current sweet lyrical voice exaggerated and very boring by the way, singing with vigor, anger and feeling totally in line oitentista what is guarantee that we will not find moments of boring music; when she sings in normal tone exudes talent when singing in high tones recalls Rob Halford in his most proud moments, believe that the main influences of the "girl" is just the bald, Geoff Tate and Ronnie James Dio, though musically she also like other styles more brutal.

Speaking of the work itself, Arrival is a great job blending the best of power metal U.S. oitentista with timbragens modern production century, with music and varied, but without the excesses of virtuosity; Dave Starr stands out here by work in the six-string riffs creating highly accurate, metal and soil in equal measure, to the keyboards used with some exaggeration at times (there are people who will not like) add a touch of European metal to such arrangements, the drummer Jim leads all with certain face at the right and the vowel must not comment, and doubt they have been as influential in the VR; JUDAS PRIEST / HALFORD and names of European metal in general.

Highlights? there is weak or bad music, but as a listener and fan of metal highlight Rose In The Dark with a measured pace and riffs Battles; Arrival Priestnianas influenced instrumental and vocal, "Rise" Wilde simply arrrrrrrrrasa this song, "Next Generation" more one with a little foot in the old "judas priest" lilting, infectious and great for hitting the head, and nothing actually preferred are left to the listener. Listen, buy, enjoy. One of the greatest - in my top 10 list this year that just ended - releases of the year and more to come!

Score: 9 out of 10

WildeStarr - Official Band Site
WildeStarr on MySpace Music - Free Streaming MP3s, Pictures & Music Downloads

[WildeStarr]

Brand New Interview At: Metal Storm

WildeStarr interview (11/2009) - Metal Storm

WildeStarr is the new band of metal veteran Dave Starr - who is mostly known for his bass work in Vicious Rumors over the last 22 years and has also played in Lääz Rockit, Destillery and Chastain - and London Wilde, who has worked behind the scenes as a recording engineer, song writer, studio vocalist and keyboardist since 1994. They released their debut album, Arrival, just a short while ago. After reviewing their first release, we arranged an Interview.



You just released you first album, how were the reactions?

Dave: It's been amazing! This has been a real journey and adventure to get this CD done, not just the recording and song writing… lots of other things as well. We had to go through quite a few drummers before we found the right guy in Jim Hawthorne. Many obstacles were in our way, but we kept at it… and we are thrilled with the way the CD came out and with the reaction of fans from all over the world.

London: The reactions have been phenomenal! We appreciate all the positive emails from fans we have received, and the excitement over the record that many reviewers have shown.


I know that you read my review of Arrival, do you read all reviews about your material and do you think most reviewers understood what Arrival was about? Have any of the reviews made you think differently of any aspect of the album?

Dave: I have read them all, or at least all the ones I am aware of. So far, overall… the response and CD reviews have been great. One or two that we just OK, but you can't make everyone happy. I don't worry at all about negative things said about us. All of my favourite bands have had bad reviews from time to time, so if we get one here or there… hey, that's life. I think I have read about 40 or 50 "Arrival" reviews, and almost everyone of them has said great things about the album and about London and I. Many writers are saying Arrival is the best, or one of the best CD's of the year. You can't get much better then that!

London: I have not read all the reviews, but I have read quite a few. It's always interesting to discover how someone else hears you, and maybe only a handful of reviews really described the record exactly the way I perceived it. Yes, i can't help but think differently about a few aspects of the record, even though I try to keep my own inner voice as the main one to listen to. At the same time, I want to grow as a musician, and make the next record even better, so I will take some things into consideration for improvement.



Do you know what the members of Vicious Rumors think about WildeStarr?

Dave: Geoff Thorpe is behind us 100%, he loves the CD, and he gave us a really nice quote to use for promotional purposes. Part of Geoff wishes I was still in VR, but once he heard the album, it made him really understand why I needed to do my own thing. Geoff even said he wants to play with us when we tour. Vinnie Moore said some great things about the CD as well. James Rivera told me he was blown away when he heard the CD. Mark McGee said I sounded like Gary Moore!

London: Both Geoff Thorpe and James Rivera have phoned me up, and said how awesome they thought the record was. Very nice to hear, coming from them!


One of the defining points of your bands sound is London's voice. Where did you learn to sing like that? Who are your main influences as a singer?

London: Thanks! I have actually been a little taken aback by the vocal accolades I have been receiving for "Arrival", I was just trying not to suck! My vocal influences are Ronnie James Dio, Rob Halford and Geoffe Tate. I am pretty much a self taught singer, who has been practicing for about 20 years. I am still practicing, always trying to get better.

Dave: London is the Metal Goddess!



As far as I know WildeStarr is the first band with you as lead vocalist. Is there any special reason why it hasn't happened before? Are you currently planning on participating as lead singer in any other projects?

London: WildeStarr is the first band that didn't fire me before it was done! I am forever grateful to Dave for giving me a chance to show what I can do in the context of a full album, allowing me to write the melodies, lyrics and have a lot of creative control. I don't know exactly why it hasn't happened for me before, guess I just didn't connect with the right people. WildeStarr has occupied my full attention for the last couple of years, and now I am back to taking occasional studio work from my regulars. Singing backups, or small tasks for NON-Metal projects, like Radio Disney pop and rock customers. I would like to continue to work in Metal, which is where my heart lies.

Dave: I think London went through the same crap that lots of musicians and singers go through. It is very hard to find 4 or 5 people who are all on the same page. Maybe the people she was working with in the past felt threatened because she was 10 times more talented then they were.


Are any concerts planned with WildeStarr? If yes, do you already know who will be in the touring line-up or is there anyone you'd like to have on board?

Dave: If and when we tour, it will be in 2010. We don't have an actual band. WildeStarr is London and I, with a session drummer (Jim Hawthorne) on the CD. We will need to hire musicians to tour with us. I have had a few musicians offer their services to us, but nothing is certain right now. The idea of working with Geoff Thorpe in WildeStarr does intrigue me, that's for sure.

London: I would like the opportunity to tour, and I hope we can make that happen!



What does touring mean for you personally and as a musician?

Dave: I did lots of touring with VR back in the day from 1986 to 1993. Many great memories from all over the world, it was a great experience. I would like to do it again with WildeStarr, but we are just taking things one step at a time right now. Things have to be just right for London and I to go out on the road. If it happens… it happens, if not… that's OK with me. We will just start work on the next CD.

London: Touring means personally being away from home and all the things that are familiar, which is intimidating. As a musician, connecting with fans live, and all feeling at the same time, is very powerful and addictive, and makes the pain of travel worth it.


Do you consider WildeStarr a one-off project or a full-fledged band? How do you see the future of the band? Are you thinking of a second album and are you planning to add more members to the line-up or will you continue as a duo?

Dave: Right now, WildeStarr is a duo. I don't really like the "project" label. London and I… we are the band. You never know what the future holds. I do want to keep making WildeStarr CD's for the foreseeable future, especially since we have had such a great response with "Arrival". I love the artistic freedom and control that we have with WildeStarr, I never had any of that in the past. I don't know if I want to do what I did on "Arrival" again (play all the guitars and bass myself), it was an insane amount of work. I might want another guitar player to work with on the next album. We'll see.

London: I have been in WildeStarr since 2006, so it feels like a committed "band" to me in many ways, as opposed to a "project." Even though we are technically a Duo at this point, our initial vision was to have a full fledged band. Dave and I don't NEED other people to create music, so if we can't find the right people, we will push forward as a Duo, with Jim Hawthorne again on the drums for our next album. We would like to find a permanent drummer, bassist and second guitarist if possible.

What can we expect of your next album? Do you already know what you'd like to do on the next one? For example are you planning to make a similar CD, or do you want to make it faster or are there perhaps some entirely new elements you want to incorporate?

Dave: I have lots of song ideas that I have been working on for the next album. My main goal is to keep the level of quality that we have on "Arrival" going into the future, and just keep getting better and stronger as we go along. I don't see us doing a concept album or anything like that anytime soon. Just kick ass songs.

London: Arrival is very brooding, seductive, and mid-tempo record, with a certain dark ambiance. That was my general mood during the writing phase. My mood has changed. I have a feeling that our next record will be angrier, more energetic and faster, but it is too early to say. If we do bring in other people, it will have an effect on the final outcome, and I am only speculating right now.



Dave you've been in the metal scene for quite a while now, how do you think it has changed? And do you like modern metal or do you mainly listen to old favourites?

Dave: It has changed in many ways over the years. Back when I started, it seemed like there were only a handful of bands and it was easier to get noticed. Now, with the Internet…. there are millions of bands out there all fighting for exposure. I remember when cassette tapes came out back in the early 70's! I remember when CD's came out… that was a really big deal, then the internet happened… and that changed the music industry forever in good and bad ways. The illegal downloading is totally out of control. As far as music goes, I don't listen to much new stuff. I don't listen to much music at all to be honest since I am always working on my own songs, I just don't have time to listen to a lot of other music. When I do, it tends to be the older classic metal and hard rock that I grew up with.

Many metalheads make a big difference between the US and the European metal scene, especially in regards to heavy and power metal. What do you think of this? And do you like European metal?

Dave: I like any music as long as it is good. I think people try to make up too many categories and labels for bands these days. I don't care where bands come from. If the music is good, it's good… and if it's bad, it's bad.

London: Yes, I listen to a lot of European bands. There are always cycles of change, and the European sound dominates now, just as the British sound once dominated, and the San Francisco Bay area sound once dominated. That's what keeps Metal vital and going strong, so it's a good thing! As a musician, I think it's important to listen to new things, and if you like something, I think it ends up in your music in one form or another. I think WildeStarr has classic British metal influence, US/Bay Area influence, as well as current European metal influence. It's all good!


Downloading is of course a big in the world of music since a long time now. What are your thoughts on it?

Dave: I wish there was a way to stop it. If people like a band, buy their CD's and support them… don't steal the music. I have never downloaded any music illegally and I never will. Illegal downloading has cost WildeStarr a tremendous amount of lost revenue, and the CD has only been out a few months. It's terrible.

London: I think the grand experiment has failed...all of the pro "free downloading" rebuttals have been proven false. The music industry is in a shambles, many bands are put in a position to pay for their own records, for which they will not re-coup in record sales once complete. The fans are a musician's employer. How many people who download for free, would go to THEIR job for free, and even PAY to come in? Musicians are expected to. It's sick. If I like a band, I will always pay for their record, and show my support. So to the WildeStarr fans who purchased the album, I would like to say THANKS, and that we really appreciate it!


So to finish this interview, is there anything you want to tell the readers of Metal Storm?

Dave: Thanks for all the support we have received at Metal Storm! The response to the new CD has been truly amazing, and we are really grateful for all the fans out there!

London: Yes, Thanks so much for the album review, and increasing the awareness of WildeStarr to the Metal fans...there is a lot of good metal music out there these days, but I think WildeStarr really delivers what many metal heads are craving.. thanks for giving us a listen, and stay metal!

WildeStarr - Official Band Site
WildeStarr on MySpace Music - Free Streaming MP3s, Pictures & Music Downloads

[es345guy]

Hey Dave, Congrats to you and London!! Hope you guys tour the east coast -I definitely would love to see you in concert. I am a jazz guy but grew up on 3 servings of metal a day, all day, 8 days a week and I have to say Arrival just kills. I havent heard the whole album, and am going to get it but the soundclips give me an idea of how great you sound. London's vocals are amazing -that woman has BALLS!! I will spread the word about you guys.

[WildeStarr]

Originally Posted by es345guy

Hey Dave, Congrats to you and London!! Hope you guys tour the east coast -I definitely would love to see you in concert. I am a jazz guy but grew up on 3 servings of metal a day, all day, 8 days a week and I have to say Arrival just kills. I havent heard the whole album, and am going to get it but the soundclips give me an idea of how great you sound. London's vocals are amazing -that woman has BALLS!! I will spread the word about you guys.

Thanks es345guy! When we tour, I will post info on here!