Artist: Cursive Album: Such Blinding Stars for Starving Eyes

Year: 1997
Duration: 42:08

Such Blinding Stars for Starving Eyes - A Critical Review of Cursive's Masterpiece

When it comes to alternative rock music, Cursive is a band that has struck a chord with many listeners over the years. Such Blinding Stars for Starving Eyes is an album that stands head and shoulders above their already impressive discography. Released in 1998, the album explores some of the darkest themes and emotions in a way that manages to be both haunting and beautiful at the same time. In this critical review, we'll take a deep dive into the artistic and musical choices that make this album both a standout in its genre and a timeless classic that is still relevant today.

To understand the significance of Such Blinding Stars for Starving Eyes, it's important to understand the history of Cursive as a band. They formed in Omaha, Nebraska in the mid-90s as part of the burgeoning indie rock scene that was starting to make a name for itself. The band, originally consisting of Tim Kasher on vocals and guitar, Matt Maginn on bass, Stephen Pedersen on guitar, and Clint Schnase on drums, quickly gained a reputation for their unique sound and introspective lyrics.

The album itself fits within the post-hardcore and emo genre, but it’s far from being a typical album in the genre. One of the most impressive things about “Such Blinding Stars for Starving Eyes” is the way it manages to balance aggressive, in-your-face guitar riffs with quiet, introspective moments. The album takes the listener on a journey through dark and difficult emotions, exploring themes of self-doubt, depression, and the struggle to find meaning in life.

One of the standout tracks on the album is “The Dirt of Paradise”. It showcases Kasher’s ability to tell a complex story with his lyrics, exploring the darkness that bubbles just under the surface of everyday life. Another standout track is “Sink to the Beat”, which features a driving, pulsating beat that perfectly captures the feeling of being trapped in a cycle of self-doubt and isolation.

Perhaps the most innovative part of the album is the way that Cursive was able to use different musical styles to create a cohesive, emotionally charged album. There are moments of punk rock, emo, and even classic rock on this album, but they all come together to form a unique and powerful soundscape that is unmistakably Cursive. The album is textured and layered, with each song building off the last to create a truly immersive listening experience.

Despite the undeniable brilliance of this album, there are some points of criticism to be made. Some listeners may find the lyrics to be a bit too dark or maudlin, and others may find some of the musical choices to be a bit too experimental or difficult to connect with. However, for those who are willing to take the journey that “Such Blinding Stars for Starving Eyes” offers, the rewards are well worth it.

In conclusion, “Such Blinding Stars for Starving Eyes” is a masterpiece of emo and post-hardcore music that stands the test of time. It features incredible musicianship, powerful and thought-provoking lyrics, and a range of musical styles that come together to form a truly immersive listening experience. While it may not be for everyone, those who are willing to give this album a chance will be rewarded with a haunting and unforgettable journey through some of the darkest corners of the human experience.