Steaming Satellites – Slipstream

With chilled-out drum beats and futuristic synths, Austrian band Steaming Satellites’ sophomore effort brings back the funky, alternative rock that has been missing from the airwaves for a while. Released on independent German label The Instrument Village, Slipstream manages to live up to its predecessor, 2011’s The Mustache Mozart Affaire – not an easy task to take on.

As soon as the listener hits play, they are transported to a land of extra-terrestrial sound effects and church organs on the short introductory interlude, setting the scene for the rest of the record. Standout track Notice is the highlight: with strong vocals and a jazzy instrumental, it’s easy to see why it was released as the album’s lead single earlier this year (accompanied by a futuristic, outer space music video). Another high point is So I Fell Down. With teary, slurred vocals and a pulsating, electronic beat, it provides us with an interesting, modern take on the classic ballad.

Although each song is full of infectious, funky guitar riffs, the music sometimes becomes indistinguishable from track to track, leaving the album sounding somewhat monotonous. The effect occasionally feels slightly “by-the-numbers”, following a rigid formula set by other indie artists, which provides very little room for experimentation or progression.

Despite sometimes playing it safe, Slipstream is a very solid indie rock album and is not to be missed. Jam-packed with quality vocals and danceable beats, Steaming Satellites deliver a fun record yet again.

Verdict: ★★★★★

Jack Whitfield

Slipstream is released on 6^th September, but you can pre-order the album here.

Watch the video for Notice here: