STARBENDERS

February 25, 2026 Alex Teitz

Atlanta glam rock band STARBENDERS will release their new album, The Beast Goes On, this Friday, February 27 on Sumerian Records.

The Beast Goes On includes the previously released singles “Tokyo”, “Forever Mine”, “Summon My Heart” and “21st Century Digital Boy.”

STARBENDERS fuse glam-soaked swagger with dark, modern rock, creating a sound that’s equal parts seductive and dangerous. Built on towering riffs, hypnotic melodies, and cinematic atmosphere, their music thrives in the tension between grit and gloss. With fearless visuals and high energy performances, STARBENDERS bend classic rock influence into something sharp, urgent, and entirely their own.

Their music has earned major playlist support, radio airplay, and press recognition for its fearless energy and visual forward aesthetic. Equally respected for their live performances, the band has shared stages with notable artists across the rock spectrum, solidifying their reputation as a must see act. As they enter their next era, the band stands as a testament to creative independence, hard earned momentum, and rock music that refuses to play it safe.

STARBENDERS have announced UK/EU Tour dates:

STARBENDERS are Kimi Shelter, Aaron Lecesne, Kriss Tokaji, and Qi West. FEMMUSIC e-mailed with Kimi Shelter on the eve of the new album.

FEMMUSIC: What was the biggest challenge making The Beast Goes On?

KS: The label wanted us to try working with a new producer for this record, which was a little scary for us. Not because we weren’t excited to try something new, but because we’ve worked with Nico since the very beginning of our career. He’s been our fifth Beatle the whole time. Everyone chose to trust the process and go for it. We ended up recording the majority of the record in LA during the fires last year, which was crazy. Thankfully we got through it safely and had a really organic experience; we’re happy with how it came out.

FEMMUSIC: I see some of the singles date back to 2024. How did you determine song selection for this album?

KS: I think the modern approach is less sacred than how it used to be. Someday when we have the resources we’d love to sit down and write a concept album that’s done all in one chunk. A lot of this material was written and recorded a couple years ago, so songs like ‘Tokyo’ were released before there was a firm plan for the record. An album like this becomes a snapshot of an era, which can span over a longer period of time.

FEMMUSIC: What is your vision of this album? How did that translate in studio?

KS: Our vision was to stay connected to the elements of the band that have been there for over a decade while also making space for Wei to introduce herself to our audience. The most important thing was songcraft and arrangement, putting a lot of thought into the small things. The studio experience was super organic. It was just about capturing the raw energy of the band and letting new energy flow into our well established corners.

FEMMUSIC: I was struck by the arrangement in “Forever Mine.” Can you tell me how that song came together?

KS: I wrote this song as a binding spell, so I guess you’re stuck with us haha! The arrangement leans more traditional for us but the outro was the work of said new producer, Matthew Pauling. He was super inspired by everyone’s musicianship and wanted to take the opportunity to break everything down and let the rhythm section have some fun. I love that outro, it’s one of my favorite parts of the record.

FEMMUSIC: “June” has a distinctive feel to it. Can you tell me how that song evolved?

KS: I wrote ‘June’ years ago, around the same time I wrote ‘Seven White Horses’. I find it to be a very special song, just took some time to find a place for it on a record. Someone told me that song is my soul, and I’d have to agree.

FEMMUSIC: Can you describe your songwriting technique? Individually and within the band?

KS: My Dad is an architect, and I grew up watching him make plans and designs on autocad. I thought I’d end up an architect too but I became a songwriter. I’m my father’s daughter in my approach. I make a well-laid blueprint for everyone and then we come together to build the house. I do like to be quarantined during my initial “download” but I’m looking forward to writing with more people in the future, I just haven’t had many opportunities outside of our little crew.

FEMMUSIC: Whom would you most like to tour with, or collaborate with? Why?

KS: Fontaines D.C., Ghost, Halsey, Chappell Roan, Depeche Mode, Die Spitz, Trent Reznor, Yungblud, 69 Eyes, Billie Eilish, Muni Long… you name it. We love seeing all of the rock n’ roll out there right now too. Kriss and I got to see Oasis this past summer and that was insane, I’m sure that’d be life changing to open for them.

FEMMUSIC: What one thing would you like to change about the music industry?

KS: I think a living wage for musicians would be nice. I saw what they’re going to do in Ireland, that’s badass.

FEMMUSIC: What has been your experience as a woman in the music industry? Has that changed over time?

KS: I’m really lucky in that the people in my inner circle have been incredible. Because I’ve had the privilege of trusting the people around me, it’s allowed me to grow and flourish as an artist. There’s still a lot of gatekeeping and bullshit that has to be dealt with; but at least we’re all in it together. A lot of the scene can still be a boys club, but allowing more access to the same opportunities like main stages and mainstream playlists should help over time.

#starbenders

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