BLACKSTARKIDS – “Juno”

SXSW 2022 - OEB Score: 8; Popularity Index: 5 

Pairs Well With…Black Eyed Peas, The 1975, Run-DMC

BLACKSTARKIDS defy genre expectations - most of their songs are catchy and upbeat, almost twee and the music is a playful mashup of indie and synth pop with strong 80s rock and hip-hop influences, including a fair amount of share-the-mike among the three bandmates. “Juno” is the leading track on their new album Puppies Forever, with sing-song vocals and an 80’s pop chorus. Similar party happy are “Acting Normal” and “Piss Drunk Kids”. “All Cops are Bastards,” on the other hand, is a sharp political critique of inner city policing from the standpoint of the policed.  In addition to the powerful message, it’s a strong song on its own right with distorted and shouted vocals and steady synths rising with the chorus.  The song was inspired by the experiences of BLACKSTARKIDS’ three members, Ty, The Babe Gabe, and Deiondre, growing up in Kansas City and after they participated in the protests that followed George Floyd’s killing. Their confidence, musicality, and charisma win out. Having been close friends making music together since high school, BLACKSTARKIDS insularity seems to have given them the room to make fun music with a message without worrying about what others think. Ultimately, these talented young musicians are using their multiple influences as both homage and as a jumping off point. The live show should be fun too. (David Zlotnick)