This was a great venue for Star Circus’ Album Launch, showcasing the London based Rock Pop quintet's second album, ‘From The Wreckage’, with a sprinkling of songs from their first. Camden Underworld is a tight, up close and intimate venue. You are right in there with the band and sound. So their fans and I had a real treat! Exciting, energetic, tight in tone and fresh in their Rock sound and content, Star Circus deserve to be right up there with other major Rock outfits. With each band member crafting their magic musically and visually on stage, Star Circus are proper pros.

Front man, composer and lyricist, David Winkler, switches from intense raw Rock to melodic harmonies on lead vocals, lead guitar and acoustic guitar. Sophie Aurelia Brown, the cool bassist and vocalist is arresting, with her fabulous flame red hair, sexy Goth Rock chick look and is so totally cool and controlled in her confident performance. Santiago Periotti also on guitar up front, displayed a talented intensity with virtuoso playing that it is hard to beat. William Robertson, the producer of the new album, is also a talented keyboardist and guitarist in his own right. And last but not least, Reuben O’Donague, is a very talented solid drummer, content in his percussive space.

Each of the band members has worked so hard to be the talented musicians they are and promoters should sign them up! The guy next to me was dancing away and others were similarly blown away with their sound. As was I. Setlist wise they included ‘Chained to You’, ‘The Wreckage’, ‘One Hit Wonder’, ‘Gina in a Bottle’, all from the new album, as well as ‘Love is the Enemy’, ‘Save Your Life’ and ‘Before the Song is Over’ from their first album, ‘Separate’. Guitarist Riccardo Coccia also guested on ‘Times Get Tough’, adding to the launch party gig feel. Indeed, Star Circus are definitely not a One Hit Wonder but the real Rock deal. Listen to them and go see!

Review and Photos by Denise Lester