Fort Collins four-piece has always been a difficult band to nail down. Or to paraphrasea song title from the band’s new LP,Bleed, Stella Luce music is difficult to “tie to a tree.” Problem is, when you find a word that seems to stick, they shift, often within the same song, to something that counters the assessment. Various uses of “avant-whatever,” “gypsy,” “indie,” etc. have been applied and all fall short. The band is simply too elusive to be tied to a tree.
Of course, this is only a problem for music writers. Since its inception, fans interested in uber-original music have embraced Stella Luce. “Bleed” should only tighten the embrace, despite the fact that itmay be the band’s most menacing album yet.
The lyrics suggest the band is no longer elusive, but on the attack. “Bleed” starts with “We Will Eat Anyone Who Gets In Our Way,” then immediate follows with the advice “Run, Run, Run.” Add to this “Black Heart” and, of course, “Tie You To a Tree” and you start to get the band’s intentions.
Vocalist and viola player Alana Rolfe’s voice and lyrics always had a bit of menace, but it’s been more like the incantations of a dark gypsy. Sure, it’s magic, but who believes in that? Here, it’s more physical and direct. Surprisingly, it’s also more playful and fun. This may be a result of how the band has expanded its sound for “Bleed.” On past releases, Rolfe and her viola were the star. “Bleed”is much more of an ensemble effort. Most notably, guitarist Tim Massa, who first appeared on the band’s most recent EP, has much more influence here, imparting more rock, bluesy and sometimes funky elements that make the music more accessible. But don’t worry: The electronic elements and Rolfe’s incomparable voice still bring enough to the mix to make it elusive music.
The band will host a release show in Fort Collins on February 11 at . Then, two other shows at in Denver on February 23 and in Colorado Springs on February 25.
Below, download “Run, Run, Run.” Listen to therest of“Bleed”on the .
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