Bio

The Stars Explode is the new rock band led by Doug Edmunds, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and founding member of critically acclaimed 90s power pop outfit, Gladhands. Following the untimely demise of that band, Edmunds set to work writing new material in the early oughts but waited for several long years to begin putting his tunes to tape (yes, 1/2-inch tape). Taking a Todd Rundgren/Jon Brion DIY approach, Edmunds tracked the record almost entirely alone at home, layering one part after another, while staying true to the limitations of his 8-track analog format. By summer 2008, he found himself with a bona fide solo album.

Doug Edmunds Presents…The Stars Explode reveals a broad range of influences, from the Weller-esque, soulful strains of opener, New Beginnings, to the driving dream pop of Borderline and vintage Bowie-flavored Lost on Planet Love. Edmunds exhibits a strong knack for melody and the memorable hook throughout, while his uncluttered arrangements allow the songs to breathe.

Despite the one-man-band origins of the record, Edmunds was eager to assemble a working group to perform live and reinterpret the songs. In the fall of 2008, he brought together a collective of talented players, and the group is currently gigging in and around North Carolina. Meanwhile, Edmunds has been busy writing and demoing new material for the band’s sophomore release, slated for summer 2010.

The current line-up:

Doug Edmunds - guitar/vocals
Eric Peterson - guitars/vocals
FJ Ventre - bass/vocals
Chris Osmond - drums

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