Recorded and mixed at Pottoko Studios in Beasain (Basque Country) by Fredi Peláez, “Bizi berri baten gezurra” (The lie of a new life) essentially follows in the footsteps of its magnificent predecessor, with the added virtue of the band’s journey on the road, the experience, and the know-how of a project that has been evolving for ten years thanks to its unique philosophy and a rather uncommon way of seeing the blues.
A record devoid of gratuitous concessions, original in form and intriguing in content. An album that traverses the sonic strokes of Yon Labayen´s piano, redolent of jazz blues in “Bizi berri baten gezurra” (The lie of a new life), only to completely shift gears in “Arima libre” (Free Soul) with echoes from Carlos Santana, guided by Jon Barreros on guitar and Unai Lopetegi on percussion. The band shuns the most rigid orthodoxy, wrapping the profound lyrics of “Denboraren zama” (The burden of time) in a shuffle rhythm. Blues Rock with meaningful lyrics and an incendiary guitar performance by Jon Barreros in “Zirkoa” (Circus) showcases the band’s flexibility, whether handling dynamics on “Bakardadean” (In solitude), a soulful slow blues, or maintaining a perfect pulse in the shuffle “Patru Petrala” (Insolent destiny). While all songs are credited to the band, all the lyrics bear Jon Barreros’ signature, except for “Aintzergako mugarriak” (The borders of Aintzerga), written by Yon Labayen with echoes of the finest New Orleans blues tradition. Funk, soul, and blues add an extra dimension, pouring relentlessly through “Errutinak irentsita” (Swallowed by routine). Starblues conclude with the energetic blues and frenetic rhythm on “Paper madarikatuak!!” (Damned papers!!).
“Bizi berri baten gezurra” may solely stem from the will, hard work, and conviction within a project that has been ten years on the road. An album signed by a band easily distinguishable from many others. A band that has ingeniously crafted its own sound, elevating it to the status of a style: the Starblues style.
