Returning to work with
Tom McFall, who produced the group’s 2005 album
Set Yourself on Fire,
Stars recorded their fifth full-length in their home city of Montreal, writing together as a unit in the studio. Self-funded, as the first of
Stars' releases for their own Soft Revolution Records,
The Five Ghosts finds the fivesome mainly playing it safe. As suggested by the title, the album involves a loose concept about ghosts, with songs like “I Died So I Could Haunt You” and “He Dreams He’s Awake,” as it tips back and forth between melancholy yet shiny ballads and saturated dance music. Beats recall
Postal Service's
Give Up, with added ‘80s glitter courtesy of some newly acquired synthesizers and drum programs, but with the exception of a few catchy choruses -- particularly on "Fixed" and "We Don't Want Your Body" -- the album is less single-driven than prior outings. Still, fans will find a lot to like. ~ Jason Lymangrover