Star Moles review of ‘Highway to Hell’ album
Highway to Hell showcases Star Moles, also known as Emily Moales, at her most absurd, cynical, and tender. Unlike her previous works that delved into science fiction and Medieval literature, Moales’ latest album explores the ordinary and inescapable moments of life. The songs on Highway to Hell are characterized by their stripped-back, psychedelic sound, adding a mythological touch to the mundane aspects of existence.
Throughout the album, Moales exudes a newfound sense of confidence and freedom, demonstrating a paradoxical control that emerges from letting go. Her lyrics, though delivered with uncertainty at times, portray a sympathetic and observant narrator who grapples with the complexities of the universe. Despite claiming to act for the right reasons, Moales acknowledges her own powerlessness in the face of life’s uncertainties, leaving questions unanswered and emotions unexplored.
Moales seamlessly weaves absurdity, cynicism, and tenderness into her delicate folk arrangements, reminiscent of a blend between Stephen Malkmus and Weyes Blood. Her lyrical prowess shines through in lines like “I need you like I need a hole in my head,” where the apparent contradiction unveils a deeper layer of meaning. Echoes of nostalgia, anxiety, and ambivalence color Moales’ storytelling, painting vivid pictures through seemingly random yet evocative imagery.
Produced by her long-time collaborator Kevin Basko at his New Jersey recording studio, Highway to Hell benefits from a spacious and immersive production that allows Moales’ voice and music to thrive. The album’s playful tracks, like “Skip the Party,” evoke a sense of joyful mischief akin to a child inventing imaginary worlds. Even in the slow-burning piano ballad “Control Freak,” Moales captures the bittersweet essence of love and self-reflection, embracing the beauty in vulnerability and the enigmatic nature of human connections.
The album’s opener, “The End,” sets the tone for a musical journey that defies traditional expectations, mirroring a challenging and intricate road trip along a never-ending loop. Moales’ introspective lyrics and evocative melodies illustrate the constant struggle for agency and control over circumstances that remain beyond her reach. Each track on Highway to Hell encapsulates a futile yet compelling quest for understanding and acceptance amidst life’s unpredictable twists and turns.
In essence, Highway to Hell is a testament to Moales’ evolving artistry and narrative prowess, inviting listeners to embark on a contemplative and introspective journey through the intricacies of human experience. With its blend of whimsical storytelling, poignant reflections, and ethereal soundscapes, the album captures the essence of embracing vulnerability, finding beauty in imperfection, and seeking solace in the midst of chaos. Star Moles’ Highway to Hell is a testament to the transformative power of music and storytelling, urging listeners to embrace life’s uncertainties with courage and grace.