The other day, I got my first email request for this series. This one’s for you, Scott. You might be IN this band, but you were my first.
What kind of music screams “Queen City” to you? College rock? Bluegrass? EDM?
The local scene is nothing if not surprising, because the Queen City Silver Stars are making music unlike ANYONE else around; they describe their sound as “Midwest mind, Caribbean soul,” and as soon as I heard it, I knew I had to tell all of you.
Let’s talk about “Suitcase,” the band’s 2024 album. I guarantee this is the only place on earth you’ll hear a steel drum on a song about Tom Waits. Songs like “Mantra” and “Step Inside” feel more at home with the coastal vibes, but remember: you’re not actually on vacation right now. Sorry!
More surprising still is how tight everything is. Songs like “Cordelia” or “Come on Over” off their first album, “Green Flash,” show that the band has never been a slouch at delivering breezy jam band energy. The grooves are more than competent; they’re playful and fun.
Now, I have to be honest: my knowledge base for bands with island influence is not too high. I have essentially no idea how to judge this. Thing is, I don’t have to overthink it. Aren’t good vibes the point?
Their newest track, “Time & Pressure,” is another delight. The vocals really shine; like I said, this band can jam! Online, they describe themselves as a live-first act, and I believe it.
If you want to hear one of Cincy’s most unique bands in person, you can catch them at the Fernbank Golf Course on Aug. 28 as part of their summer concert series — and listen. It’s about as hot as could be out there, so do me a favor: buy some pineapple juice and some lime, put on some QCSS, and relax.
You can find last week’s feature on The Tillers here. Leave a comment on our Instagram or email me at ebloomfield@linknky.com with your suggestions for next week’s local band highlight!
