Drug Bug, the solo alias of emo-duo Willy Rodriguez member Star Starer (who I will refer to as Alex for simplicity), has always impressed me with every new thing that he releases. This is no exception! Officially ending a trilogy of releases that included Willy Rodriguez’s final album and Alex’s solo debut EP, a seasons end. is a phenomenal bow to tie it off.

There is one aspect of this album that sets it apart from the rest of Alex and Willy Rodriguez’s catalogs: the instrumentals. While yes, they all do all sound sonically similar, a seasons end. has ZERO synths or virtual instruments. Every instrument used throughout the album–ranging from guitar, to clarinet, to cello, to trumpet, to banjo, to glockenspiel, to a gosh-darn balalaika–are played by Alex, and Alex alone. Knowing that gives this album a very personal feeling to it. 

Alex states that this album, in terms of how it was produced, was heavily inspired by Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On” and the Motown House. Now, you may listen to the two side-by-side and think, “How in the world was Alex inspired by this? The two sound nothing alike!” But, it’s not about the genre or the overarching sound, it’s about the arrangements. The pianos in songs like “took my heart” lay out the groove of the track. The basslines in “such a thrill to be with you again” resemble James Jamerson and his iconic performances.

I find that where he strays away from this inspiration is where Alex shines. His vocals are the backbone throughout this project. The variety of emotions that Alex achieves is stunning; from the desperated pleads in “boy kisser” to the aganous cries in “sprout”. The way he layers two takes of vocals over each other adds a beautiful touch.

All in all, Alex’s debut solo album, a seasons end. is a phenomenal project front to back. Packed with unique instrumentals and vocals, Alex uses his 32-minute run time to convey compelling stories about his life, his love, and his struggles. Check in out here: https://drugbug1.bandcamp.com/album/a-seasons-end